Hanging old CDs around a garden can deter territorial magpies from monopolising bird feeders, protecting smaller species such as robins and goldfinches, according to bird-proofing manufacturer Huck Nets UK.
Why Magpies Are a Problem
Magpies are among the most intelligent birds found in gardens, yet they are also known for taking over a bird feeder if left unchecked. This summer has been particularly dry across the UK, meaning there may be fewer berries and insects available than usual, making it especially beneficial to put out food for birds.
The difficulty is that magpies are highly territorial creatures, and once they identify a dependable food source, they will often drive other birds away to claim it for themselves. They are considerably larger than most other British garden birds, so an influx of magpies could render a garden far less hospitable to smaller species.
How CDs Deter Magpies
Huck Nets UK has suggested a simple method to deter magpies that requires nothing more than a few old CDs. The manufacturer said: "Magpies are startled by light reflections, and this can be an effective method in helping to keep them out of your garden. There are a couple of ways that you can do this. Firstly, old CDs are great at catching and reflecting light, so if you have any, hang them up around your garden at intervals."
Suspending CDs or other reflective objects around a garden is a well-established technique for deterring larger birds such as magpies, as they tend to associate sudden flashes of light with movement. Magpies are likely to interpret the reflected light as a predator in the vicinity, making them feel less at ease when venturing into a garden to feed.
Magpies are also unsettled by unfamiliar objects within their territory, meaning their natural instinct is to exercise caution and maintain a safe distance. Given their remarkable intelligence, they tend to notice unexpected additions to their environment far more readily than other species, meaning they can be deterred without causing disruption to other wildlife.
Practical Tips for Using CDs
To use CDs effectively, thread string through a CD and position between three and six of them around a bird feeder. Space them out and hang them at varying heights rather than grouping them together, and try to place them in open spots where sunlight and wind can catch them.
Most people opt for CDs as a bird deterrent simply because they already have them at home, though any reflective material will do the job — tin foil, pie dishes, or even specialist bird tape if prepared to spend a little money.
Given their exceptional intelligence, magpies may eventually determine that the CDs pose no real threat. To maximise their effectiveness, try repositioning the CDs around the garden every few days, as this helps to keep the magpies disorientated and at bay for longer. Combining CDs with additional bird deterrents will also prove beneficial, as magpies are more likely to abandon a food source permanently if it proves too difficult to access.
Other Deterrents
Bird netting, audio deterrents, or simply positioning a cage around a feeder to allow only smaller birds access can also help ensure magpies keep their distance. Magpies are additionally drawn to unclean gutters, so if they continue to be a problem, it is worthwhile clearing them out to discourage their return. Ensure bins are properly sealed with lids fitted, as any rubbish left on the ground can also attract magpies to nest in the vicinity.
That said, it is advisable to try the CD method first, as it represents the most straightforward approach to deterring magpies and preventing them from intimidating other birds in the garden.
