As natural food sources decline in autumn, magpies are often seen at bird feeders – but they tend to eat eggs from other nests which can stop other birds from visiting gardens. However, there is an easy way to keep magpies away
Magpies can prove rather divisive as they’re remarkably intelligent, yet they have a habit of raiding other birds’ nests for eggs, which can deter feathered visitors from gardens. Birds spend considerably more time foraging during autumn as natural food sources such as berries and insects become scarce, meaning magpies are frequently spotted at bird feeders throughout this season.
Given that magpies are larger and fiercely territorial, they can effortlessly intimidate songbirds like robins and drive them away from gardens entirely. Nevertheless, David, a specialist from Bird Proofing HQ, has revealed a simple trick to ward off magpies whilst still welcoming robins – and all you require are some old CDs or DVDs.
David explained: “One effective way to deter magpies is by using reflective objects. These birds are sensitive to light reflections, which can startle and prevent them from entering your garden.”, reports the Express.
“Hanging old CDs or using bird scare tapes in strategic areas can create reflections that frighten magpies away. Bird scare tape, designed specifically for this purpose, can be affixed in areas where magpies frequent.”
CDs, or any gleaming material, bounce back sunlight, and the abrupt bursts of light can replicate predator movement, convincing magpies that a location poses danger.
This can leave magpies feeling under threat or simply uneasy, as they’re typically more susceptible to reflective light than songbirds.
However, CDs do not have the same effect on robins, which tend to feed on the ground, so are less likely to investigate any shiny objects in the air.
They also tend to be more curious and less skittish than magpies, and can adapt quickly to new things in their environment.
How to keep magpies out of your garden to encourage robins
Simply tie some string to some old CDs and hang them from trees, fences or other high objects in your garden. Magpies tend to like open spaces, while robins prefer quieter areas. Make sure to space the CDs out evenly in a garden, but keep them away from corners or tucked-away areas.
Other ways to keep magpies out of your garden are to stop throwing out kitchen scraps and instead put out foods robins love like mealworms, suet pellets and sunflower seeds.
Magpies are omnivores, so they will love gardens that have meat or vegetables, but are unlikely to find mealworms or fatty seeds appetising.
It can also help to use caged seeders that will let robins feed from them but are too small for magpies, so can deter them from your garden for the rest of autumn.