Magpies in Portugal
When the Magpie (Pica pica) is present in Portugal, when it nests, and which native Portugal plants supply the food it depends on.
- Status in Portugal
- Resident all year
- Nesting season
- March–June
- Size
- 45 cm, 230 g
- Nest box
- Does not use enclosed boxes
When to expect magpies in Portugal
The Magpie lives in Portugal all year round. Mild, wet winters that attract many wintering European songbirds.
Mediterranean with strong Atlantic influence, wetter in the north.
Nesting in Portugal
In Portugal the Magpie usually nests March–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 Portugal plants for magpies
Of the native plants we track for Portugal, 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 Portugal all year?
Yes — the Magpie is resident in Portugal all year.
When do magpies nest in Portugal?
Typically March–June. Clutches are 5–6 eggs, incubated for 21–22 days, with 1 per year.
Which native plants help magpies in Portugal?
Hawthorn, Rowan, Holly, Ivy, Elder, Blackthorn, Dog rose, Guelder rose are native to Portugal and provide food or cover the Magpie uses.
Magpies in other countries
Other garden birds in Portugal
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.