Magpies in France
When the Magpie (Pica pica) is present in France, when it nests, and which native France plants supply the food it depends on.
- Status in France
- Resident all year
- Nesting season
- April–June
- Size
- 45 cm, 230 g
- Nest box
- Does not use enclosed boxes
When to expect magpies in France
The Magpie lives in France all year round. Mild in the west and south; hard frosts in the north-east and mountains.
Oceanic in the west, continental in the east, Mediterranean along the south coast and Alpine in the mountains.
Nesting in France
In France the Magpie usually nests April–June. Nest site: domed stick nest in trees. Clutches are 5–6 eggs, incubated for 21–22 days; chicks fledge after 24–30 days, and pairs raise 1 per year.
- The Magpie does not use enclosed nest boxes — dense native shrubs and climbers give it nest sites.
- Avoid cutting hedges during the nesting season (roughly March to August) — in the UK, disturbing an active nest is an offence under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.
Native France plants for magpies
Of the native plants we track for France, these 8 provide food the Magpie uses:
Haws feed thrushes all winter; spring blossom supports hundreds of insect species.
Orange-red berries are a magnet for Blackbirds, thrushes and Waxwings from August.
Evergreen roosting cover and winter berries on female plants.
Late-winter berries when little else is left, plus dense nesting cover.
Late-summer berries taken by Blackcaps and thrushes.
Thorny cover that protects nests; early blossom for insects.
Hips persist into winter for thrushes and finches.
Translucent red berries in autumn.
Feeding in the garden
Omnivorous — insects, carrion, fruit and eggs.
- Does not visit feeders — habitat and water are what bring it in.
- Research shows Magpies do not drive garden songbird declines.
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked
Are magpies in France all year?
Yes — the Magpie is resident in France all year.
When do magpies nest in France?
Typically April–June. Clutches are 5–6 eggs, incubated for 21–22 days, with 1 per year.
Which native plants help magpies in France?
Hawthorn, Rowan, Holly, Ivy, Elder, Blackthorn, Dog rose, Guelder rose are native to France and provide food or cover the Magpie uses.
Magpies in other countries
Other garden birds in France
Sources
Timing reflects typical patterns for the region as a whole; local dates vary with elevation and year. Check the linked eBird bar charts for your county.