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The arrival of spring often feels accelerated, but for a pair of magpies building a nest in a Norway maple, the seasonal calendar appears to be on schedule. For the past two weeks, their diligent work has been a daily observation, a reminder that some rhythms in nature remain steadfast. Magpies, like their corvid relatives – rooks and ravens – often start nesting in winter, sometimes as early as December, defying the notion that nest building is solely a springtime activity.
Currently, the pair is focused on reinforcing the bowl-shaped foundation nestled within a fork of three upper branches. Their movements, with swinging tails as they maneuver twigs, possess a surprising grace. However, a closer look reveals a building technique that prioritizes tenacity over precision. While other birds carefully select pliable materials, these magpies are attempting to secure thick hazel sticks, often losing them over the edge of the nest in a display that resembles karate more than ballet.
The intelligence of corvids is well-documented, and this is evident in their nesting strategies. Just 100 meters away, another pair of magpies is already constructing a protective cover over their nest, built with ash twigs in the crown of an alder tree. This cover serves as a defense against predators, showcasing a level of foresight characteristic of the corvid family. The two pairs exhibit a territorial dynamic, engaging in rooftop chases accompanied by raucous “chack-chacking” calls when they venture too close, potentially over the acquisition of nesting materials – a behavior observed with twigs pilfered from an abandoned nest in a nearby field maple.
The magpies’ current efforts represent a phase of intense construction, soon to be followed by a period of rest before egg-laying begins. Meanwhile, other early spring nesters, such as long-tailed tits, are actively creating intricate, dome-shaped nests of moss and lichen – a striking contrast to the magpies’ more robust, albeit less refined, assemblages.
The Corvidae family, which includes crows, ravens, jays, and magpies, is known for its intelligence and adaptability. According to the RSPB, Notice eight species of corvid in the UK, with Carrion Crows, Rooks, Ravens, and Jackdaws being the most common. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) provides detailed identification guides for these species.
A magpie, a member of the Corvidae family. (Image: Novel Hampshire PBS)
Magpies demonstrate a remarkable ability to learn and problem-solve. Research highlighted by Wikipedia indicates that members of the Corvidae family have demonstrated self-awareness in mirror tests and tool-making abilities, skills previously thought to be exclusive to humans and a few other mammals. Their brain-to-body mass ratio is comparable to that of great apes and cetaceans, and only slightly lower than humans.
Despite lacking finesse in their construction, the magpies’ persistence is a valuable lesson. Their approach – if at first you don’t succeed, try, try, and try again – embodies a determined spirit. This dedication to the task at hand, even when faced with challenges, is a characteristic that resonates beyond the avian world.
As the magpies prepare for the next stage of nesting, the anticipation builds for the arrival of their eggs. The coming weeks will reveal whether their tenacious efforts will result in a successful brood. Observing these birds offers a glimpse into the intricate behaviors and remarkable intelligence of the corvid family, and a reminder of the enduring power of persistence in the natural world.
Keep an eye out for signs of nesting activity in your own area and consider documenting the process. Sharing observations can contribute to a greater understanding of these fascinating birds and their role in the ecosystem.
