Magpies can be fed a variety of foods that resemble their natural diet. Good options include insects such as mealworms, crickets, beetles, and spiders, as well as small animals like worms, frogs, and small lizards. They also eat fruits and grains such as berries, oats, and seeds. For a treat, cooked or raw eggs and unsalted nuts are suitable. It is important to avoid feeding magpies bread, mince, processed meats, sugary or salty foods, and dairy, as these can be harmful or lack proper nutrition. Feeding should be done sparingly to avoid dependency, and providing clean water and natural foraging opportunities is beneficial. Here is a summarized guide on what to feed and avoid for magpies: Good foods to feed magpies:
- Insects: mealworms, crickets, beetles, spiders
- Small animals: worms, frogs, small lizards
- Fruits: berries, apples, pears
- Grains and seeds: oats, birdseed
- Cooked or raw eggs
- Unsalted nuts
Foods to avoid feeding magpies:
- Bread and bread-based products (nutritionally poor)
- Mince or processed meats (too high in fat and low in calcium)
- Dairy products
- Sugary or salty human foods
- Raw meat that can carry parasites
Feeding magpies should be limited to small amounts so they do not become reliant on humans, and it is best to let them forage naturally. Providing clean water and a safe environment with native plants supports their wellbeing. This guidance helps keep magpies healthy and supports their natural behaviors while avoiding negative impacts on their health and ecosystem balance.
