Muggles' Guide to Harry Potter/Magic/Augurey

Overview
An Augurey, or Irish Phoenix, is a small greenish-black bird that resembles a vulture and can emit a distinctive low cry. Being shy creatures, they stay primarily within their tear-shaped nests and fly only in periods of heavy rain.

Extended Description
Though native to Britain and Ireland, the Augurey has also been spotted throughout northern Europe. They make their nests in bramble and thorn and their diet consists mostly of large insects and fairies.

In the past, wizards associated the cry of the Augurey with death, and a few early wizards are believed to have succumbed to a heart attack upon being surprised by the wail of an unseen augurey. Later it was determined that, instead of foretelling death, the augurey's cry signalled an impending rain shower.

The Augurey has been used as a home weather forecaster, though its persistent moaning during the winter months can be unbearable for some. As Augurey feathers repel ink, they are ineffective for quills.