Australian magpies are highly intelligent birds that are usually quite friendly, unless it’s mating season (August to October), when some magpies swoop as a way of protecting their territory and young. While it’s unlikely you’ll see a baby magpie up close when it’s still in the nest, soon afterwards you might encounter one on the ground.
But as fluffy and cute as they are, and as much as they may tug at your heartstrings, intervening might not be the best idea, especially when it can take a baby magpie a few weeks to learn to fly.
According to WIRES, baby magpies leave their nests before flying correctly, relying on their parents for protection and nourishment during the initial weeks. Usually, the parents are nearby, watching over their chick.
What should I do if I find a baby magpie?
It is crucial to observe the situation and remember that baby magpies must stay with their parents for the first three to four months. When they reach six months old, juvenile magpies can fend for themselves when finding food.
Follow this step-by-step guide if you spot a baby magpie that might need help.
- Observe from a distance: If you come across a baby magpie on the ground, start by observing it from a safe distance. Watch for any signs of distress or injury.
- Assess the situation: Determine whether the baby magpie is in immediate danger, such as being near a busy road or threatened by predators like cats or dogs.
- Look for parents: Look for adult magpies nearby. In many cases, the parents are watching over their chick and may be nearby, especially during daylight hours.
- Leave it be, if safe: If the baby magpie seems unharmed and there are no immediate threats, it’s generally best to leave it where it is. The parents are likely to care for it, and interfering may do more harm than good.
- Protect if necessary: If the baby magpie is in danger, such as being in the path of oncoming traffic or under threat from predators, you can carefully move it to a safer location nearby. Handle it gently and avoid causing unnecessary stress.
- Monitor from afar: After ensuring the baby magpie is safe, monitor it from a distance to see if the parents return to care for it.
- Seek professional help, if needed: If you suspect the baby magpie is injured or orphaned, or if the parents do not return after a reasonable time, contact local wildlife authorities, rehabilitators, or veterinarians for guidance and assistance.
- Do not feed unless advised: Do not feed the baby magpie unless you have specific instructions from wildlife experts or rehabilitators. Their nutritional needs are specific, and improper feeding can harm them.
- Provide water: If you’d like to support the baby magpie and its family, a shallow dish of fresh water nearby can be beneficial, especially during hot weather.
Remember, it’s essential to prioritise the safety and well-being of the baby magpie while respecting its natural habitat and family dynamics. If in doubt, seek advice from professionals who specialise in wildlife care.
How long do baby magpies stay on the ground?
A fledgling magpie can take a few weeks to develop the strength to fly independently. Wildlife Victoria notes that fledglings can remain on the ground for up to a few weeks, flapping their wings to build strength.
What do baby magpies eat and drink?
In the wild, baby magpies eat a diverse diet, initially relying on their parents for food. Magpies are omnivorous, so their diet typically consists of various foods, including insects, worms, spiders, small reptiles, fruits, and seeds.
Shannon Maguire from the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary advises against feeding baby magpies unless you have the appropriate permits.
“People feed them in their backyards, but technically, they are doing the wrong thing,” she previously told BHG. “People will feed them mainly mince or dog kibble, but neither is suitable for magpies. Mince is too high in different nutrient levels – often too much fat – as they feed on leaner foods in the wild.”
How to help your local magpies
If you want to help your local magpies, the best thing you can do is leave them fresh water.
Having a clean bird bath available for local birds, especially during warmer months, is a great help to birds and other wildlife.
If you’re worried about the health of a magpie, you can also contact WIRES on 1300 094 737.
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