The magpie really doesn't have it easy, as it has the reputation of being the most thieving of all birds. However, this rumor is not entirely unjustified, because magpies not only steal everything that sparkles and glitters, they also target the eggs of other birds. Even a nest box sometimes does not offer enough protection to deter the nest predator. However, you can protect your nesting birds from the predator with a few measures.
Magpies like to steal eggs from other birds
measures
Three simple measures will drive a magpie out of the garden or at least make it more difficult to get to the nesting box (€49.85). Unfortunately, these methods have both advantages and disadvantages.
- scare away the magpies
- make changes to the location
- choose a small flight hole
Scare away the magpies
If a magpie attacks the nesting birds in your nest box, you're bound to take notice. With loud nagging, the worried mother bird draws attention to herself and tries to put the troublemaker to flight. Hurry to her aid and drive away the nest robber as well. Of course, this method is very exhausting and only works if you are present at an attack. Tip: scare the bird off with a water pistol.
Change unsettles magpies
Like many animals, magpies are creatures of habit. As a rule, birds instinctively hide their nests in dense branches, but once the nest robber has found this hiding place, he always comes back to it. Here, too, you can support the breeding birds, for example by planting a bush in front of the nesting box. Changing the location of the nest box during the breeding season is not recommended.
Choose a small flight hole
In a size comparison, the magpie is clearly superior to the small tits, which gives it an advantage. Turn the tables by choosing a small entry hole. Then the big bird has little chance of reaching the young birds.