When we used to live in Tenterfield, northern NSW, we had a resident
family of Magpies. They nested in trees just outside our yard every
year. They also used to come and be fed direct from our hands
whenever we had a BBQ, and so came to know us. When they were
nesting, any of our family could walk right under their nest, and they
would simply warble at us. However, if the kids from down the road -
who used to throw stones at them, and try to steal their eggs -
wandered by, they would swoop them fiercely. They certainly
recognised different humans.
We re currently 'minding' a Rainbow Lorikeet as part of a local
eradication program for this invasive species. The 'caller' bird we
have in a cage screeches and whistles to all humans, but when my
daughter comes into view or earshot, the bird really goes beserk! I'm
not sure why, but she seems absolutely smitten with our daughter.
Cheers,
John Tongue
Ulverstone, Tas.
On 20/05/2009, at 5:58 PM, Wendy wrote:
I'm sure Australian Magpies can tell friend and enemy in the human
world.
I think also Little Ravens.
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