May I say that magpies are far more intelligent than they seem, and have
very long memories.
When I was school kid I remember being swooped upon by maggies and
became a little nervous at this time of the year.
It can be intimidating but remember just who's invading who's territory?
Over the years I have learned that magpies get to know you, despite long
absences. I raised one once and it was a life-changing experience.
Particularly because I had to teach the little bugger to fly. But that
was 35 years ago. (and I no longer fly ;-) )
I was surprised a few weeks ago when a magpie landed on my veranda, no
more than a metre from my computer and looked expectantly at me with one
foot tucked under.
It would have been two or three years since I fed a magpie, but he
certainly knew who I was. He was polite but his agenda was quite obvious.
As he(or she) is bringing up chicks how can you possible refuse such a
personal approach?
I guess my point is this: despite many trees that harbour magpie nests I
can walk the local streets with total impunity, because the maggies all
know me.
I don't think this is just hopeful imagination. And I remain honoured to
be part of their extended community, even as a humble human.
As for the left-handedness of Magpies, it only goes to show the artistic
nature of the bird. I mean, how would you be, born with an alto-clarinet
in your gizzard? ;-)
Cheers,
Peter
Scot Mcphee wrote:
My wife got attacked four times by a particularly vicious one that
used to be in Milton. All on the right. Drew blood - quite a bit of
it. That little bugger got me one, smack on the right cheek. Also drew
blood.
regs
scot
2009/8/17 Brian Johnson <>:
Hi. Yesterday, a group of us were riding our bikes and doing a bit of birdwatching. One
of our group made us aware of a particularly nasty male magpie attacking on the track
crossing Bribie Island. The claim was made that "all magpies attacking from behind
then try to peck the left side of the face/ear etc" because bike riders are wearing
helmets and the magpie can't inflict any damage there.
An interesting conversation then occurred about past experiences with magpies.
We are wondering if others have noticed a magpies' preference for the left. Any
studies?? Any ideas??
Brian
www.birding-aus.org
birding-aus.blogspot.com
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