Magpies in Scotland
When the Magpie (Pica pica) is present in Scotland, when it nests, and which native Scotland plants supply the food it depends on.
- Status in Scotland
- Resident all year
- Nesting season
- May–June
- Size
- 45 cm, 230 g
- Nest box
- Does not use enclosed boxes
- Delivery
- Perch Supply ships to the UK
When to expect magpies in Scotland
The Magpie lives in Scotland all year round. Short days and regular snow inland; Scandinavian Bramblings, Fieldfares and Waxwings often arrive in numbers.
Cool maritime in the west, more continental and drier in the east; the Highlands are markedly colder.
Nesting in Scotland
In Scotland the Magpie usually nests May–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 Scotland plants for magpies
Of the native plants we track for Scotland, 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 Scotland all year?
Yes — the Magpie is resident in Scotland all year.
When do magpies nest in Scotland?
Typically May–June. Clutches are 5–6 eggs, incubated for 21–22 days, with 1 per year.
Which native plants help magpies in Scotland?
Hawthorn, Rowan, Holly, Ivy, Elder, Blackthorn, Dog rose, Guelder rose are native to Scotland and provide food or cover the Magpie uses.
Magpies in other countries
Other garden birds in Scotland
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.