Magpies will never harm robins if you have 1 simple object in your garden(Image: Getty)
Magpies, known for their intelligence but also their tendency to eat eggs from other nests, can deter other birds from visiting gardens. As natural food sources like berries and insects dwindle in autumn, birds spend more time scavenging, leading to frequent sightings of magpies at bird feeders.
Their size and territorial nature allow them to mimic songbirds such as robins, causing these smaller birds to avoid gardens. David, a specialist from Bird Proofing HQ, has offered a simple solution to keep magpies at bay while still attracting robins – all you need are some old CDs or DVDs.
David explained: "One effective way to deter magpies is by using reflective objects. These birds are sensitive to light reflections, which can startle and prevent them from entering your garden.
Magpies tend to bully and intimate smaller birds like robins coming into gardens(Image: Getty)
"Hanging old CDs or using bird scare tapes in strategic areas can create reflections that frighten magpies away. Bird scare tape, designed specifically for this purpose, can be affixed in areas where magpies frequent."
CDs, or any shiny material, reflect sunlight and the sudden flashes of light can mimic the movement of predators which will make magpies believe an area is dangerous, reports the Express. This can make magpies feel threatened or simply uncomfortable, as they tend to be more sensitive to reflective light than songbirds.
However, CDs don't have the same impact on robins as they tend to feed on the ground and are less likely to be attracted by shiny objects in the air. Robins also tend to be more inquisitive and less jittery than magpies, and can quickly adapt to new elements in their surroundings.
A simple way to deter magpies while encouraging robins is to hang up CDs(Image: Getty)
Simply tie some string to old CDs and hang them from trees, fences or other tall objects in your garden. Magpies generally prefer open spaces, while robins favour quieter areas. Ensure to evenly distribute the CDs throughout your garden but avoid corners or hidden spots.
Another method to keep magpies at bay is to stop discarding kitchen scraps and instead put out foods that robins adore such as mealworms, suet pellets and sunflower seeds.
Being omnivores, magpies will be drawn to gardens with meat or vegetables, but are unlikely to find mealworms or fatty seeds appealing.
Using caged seeders that allow robins to feed but are too small for magpies can also help deter them from your garden for the remainder of autumn.
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