Magpies
About magpies
Australian Magpies are one of Australia's most familiar native birds, recognised by their distinctive black and white plumage, beautiful carolling and confident walk across lawns and open spaces. They are intelligent, social birds that live in family groups and play an important role in our local ecosystems.
Magpies are protected as are all native species and they belong to the same family as Butcherbirds and Currawongs. They are found in areas where there are trees (used for shelter, nesting and roosting) and bare or grassy areas in which to feed.
Where do magpies live?
Australian magpies are found across much of Australia in places where they have access to both trees and open ground. Trees provide shelter, nesting and roosting sites, while lawns, grasslands and other open areas provide places to forage.
What do magpies eat?
Australian magpies are mostly ground foragers. They search through grass, soil and leaf litter for insects, worms, spiders and other small animals, as well as some seeds.
One of their favourite foods is the scarab beetle, whose larvae can cause considerable damage to lawns.
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Family groups and social life
Australian magpies live in social groups and defend territories that provide access to food, nesting and roosting sites. Their family groups can include adults and younger birds, with older juveniles sometimes helping to raise younger chicks.
Breeding and young magpies
Australian magpies generally breed between June to December, although the timing can vary depending on location and conditions. The female builds the nest, usually high in a tree, where she lays her eggs and incubates them.
Once the eggs hatch, both parents care for the chicks and provide them with food. Young magpies may leave the nest before they arefully confident flyers and can spend time on the ground while their parents continue to feed and protect them.
Have you found a young magpie on the ground?
A young magpie on the ground does not necessarily need rescuing. If the bird is alert, uninjured and its parents are nearby, the best thing to do is usually to keep your distance and keep pets away while the parents continue caring for it.
If you are concerned that a young magpie is injured, orphaned or in immediate danger, contact WIRES on 1300 094 737 for advice.
Magpies and swooping
During breeding season, some magpies may defend their nests and young. Swooping is a temporary behaviour and is part of how magpies protect their chicks.
Want to know more? Find out why magpies swoop, what their warning behaviour means and simple ways to share their space at Swooping Magpies.
Report a Rescue
For wildlife rescue assistance you must call 1300 094 737 or fill in the Report a Rescue form. All other forms of contact including Facebook are not monitored for rescues.