Magpies are some of the most recognisable birds in Australia, famous for their intelligence, beautiful songs, and, let’s be honest, their occasional swooping! These black-and-white characters are often seen in backyards, parks, and even making friends with people. If you love having magpies around and want to give them a little treat, it’s important to know what’s good (and bad) for them to eat.

Magpies Are Super Smart!

Magpies belong to the same bird family as crows and ravens, which means they’re incredibly intelligent. They can recognise human faces, remember people who are kind to them, and even figure out tricky puzzles. Some magpies have even been known to mimic human speech! With brains like that, it’s no wonder they’ve adapted so well to life alongside us.

What Do Magpies Eat in the Wild?

Magpies aren’t fussy eaters—they’ll snack on just about anything they can find! Their natural diet includes:

• Insects like beetles, grasshoppers, and caterpillars
• Small animals such as lizards and frogs
• Seeds and grains
• Fruits and berries
• Carrion (dead animals)

Because they’re such great foragers, they don’t actually need to be fed by humans, but if you want to give them a little extra, it’s best to stick to healthy, natural foods.

What’s Safe to Feed Magpies?

If you want to leave out some food for your feathered friends, ensure it’s something nutritious and good for them. Here are some of the best options:

Good Foods for Magpies:

✅ Raw or lean cooked meat – A great protein boost, but don’t overdo it, and avoid anything salty. ✅ Cooked or raw eggs – Full of nutrients and easy to digest. ✅ Insects and mealworms – These mimic their natural diet and are a great snack. ✅ High-quality dog or cat food (meat-based, not grain-heavy) – If you’re out of other options, a little wet or soaked dry pet food can work. ✅ Unsalted nuts and seeds – Good for variety, but shouldn’t be their main food source. ✅ A little bit of cheese – Adds calcium, but only in small amounts.

Foods to Avoid:

❌ Bread and crackers – No real nutrients, just empty calories. ❌ Processed meats (like bacon, ham, and sausages) – Too salty and full of preservatives. ❌ Sugary or salty foods – Can upset their digestion. ❌ Avocado and chocolate – These are toxic to birds! ❌ Dairy (in large amounts) – Magpies aren’t built to digest lactose, so keep cheese minimal.

Why Mince and Bread Aren’t Good for Magpies

Many people think feeding magpies mince or bread is a kind gesture, but these foods can actually harm them. Mince, especially if given in large amounts, lacks essential nutrients like calcium, which can lead to weak bones and poor health. It also contains too much phosphorus, which can interfere with calcium absorption. Bread, on the other hand, is just empty calories—filling but nutritionally useless. Birds that eat too much bread can become malnourished, as it replaces healthier food sources in their diet. If you want to help magpies thrive, it’s best to offer foods that mimic what they would eat in the wild.

Feeding Magpies the Right Way

While feeding magpies can be a fun way to interact with them, it’s important to do it responsibly. Here are some tips to keep them happy and healthy:

• Don’t overfeed – A little treat now and then is fine, but magpies should still find most of their food naturally.
• Stick to natural foods – The closer to their wild diet, the better!
• Give them water – A shallow dish of fresh water is super helpful, especially on hot days.
• Avoid hand-feeding – It might make them too reliant on humans or even aggressive.
• Enjoy from a distance – Magpies are amazing to watch, so observe without interfering too much.

Why Magpies Matter

Magpies aren’t just fun to have around—they’re also important for the environment. They help control insect populations, clean up carrion, and even spread seeds. Their presence keeps nature in balance, so giving them a little support (without overdoing it) is a great way to appreciate their role in the ecosystem.

Final Thoughts

Magpies are clever, cheeky, and full of personality. Feeding them can be a great way to connect with these amazing birds, as long as you do it the right way. By offering safe, nutritious food in moderation and respecting their wild instincts, you can enjoy their company without causing harm.

So next time you hear that iconic magpie warble, take a moment to admire these incredible birds and maybe even offer them a healthy snack!