How to Keep Crows and Magpies from Damaging Your Garden

Crows and magpies are incredibly intelligent birds, but in the garden, that cleverness can spell trouble. From tugging out seedlings to pecking at ripe fruit or scattering mulch in search of grubs, these birds can do more harm than you might expect. If you’ve been battling bird damage, here’s how we keep crows and magpies from damaging the garden without harming them.

Netting: Your First Line of Defence

We’ve found that fine garden mesh or bird netting is the most reliable way to physically protect vulnerable crops. Soft fruit, seedlings, and freshly sown beds are prime targets, so cover them as soon as they go in.

Make sure netting is well secured and lifted off the plants to prevent tangling and damage. We use hoops or low frames to support the mesh above crops.

Use Visual Scare Tactics And Mix Them Up

Crows and magpies are cautious but curious. Classic scarecrows don’t work forever, but rotating deterrents like shiny objects, fluttering tape, or reflective pinwheels can help. We hang CDs, foil strips, or even reflective wind chimes around beds.To keep birds from getting used to them, change the placement every few days. Novelty is key!

Create Physical Discomfort (Gently)

You can try stretching fishing line or garden twine a few inches above seedbeds in a loose criss-cross pattern. It’s barely visible but makes landing awkward for birds. This works especially well for newly planted areas they love to disturb.

Cover Mulch and Bare Soil

Freshly mulched or dug areas attract magpies and crows looking for bugs. Lightly press down mulch and, where possible, use woven fabric, bark chips, or straw held down with pegs to keep things in place.

Even small gravel paths or borders can help break up large open soil patches and reduce interest.

Decoy Birds and Predators

A well-placed owl or hawk decoy can make crows and magpies think twice. Move them around the garden weekly so they don’t catch on.

Protect Feeders and Chickens Separately

If you have feeders or hens, they can draw corvids in droves. We keep bird feeders in more enclosed areas and use feeders with weight-sensitive perches to deter heavier birds like crows.

Chicken coops should be covered and secure, magpies are known to steal eggs and even peck at chicks.

Plant Decoys and Distractions

You can plant sacrificial crops, like sunflowers or corn, at the edge of the garden to lure birds away from our prized harvest. These plants recover well from light pecking and can distract birds from more vulnerable greens and fruits.

Crows and magpies are resourceful, but so are we. With the right mix of barriers, visual deterrents, and good planting practice, you can enjoy the benefits of wildlife in the garden without sacrificing your crops.