Gymnorhina sp.

Magpie

Family: Artamidae

Origin: Australia

Two magpies on a nest in a pine tree.
During nesting season males protect their nest by swooping anything they perceive as a threat.

Regional Pest Management Plan (RPMP) status

  • Whole region — Sustained control
  • Hauraki Gulf Controlled Area Notice pest

View more about the RPMP statuses

General description

Large (up to 350 grams) black and white piebald bird with red eyes.

What you need to know

To help protect our environment:

  • You must not breed, distribute, release or sell any magpie within the Auckland region.

Habitats

Open or disturbed areas, grassland, pasture, urban areas, plantations.

Impact on environment

Restricts movement and residence of native birds through aggressive territoriality. Can prey on threatened species (e.g. lizards), may transmit diseases to native birds. Aggressive attacks in breeding season may cause roadstrike or wound people and pets.

Control

Management

Refer to the Pest animal control guidelines for information on how to control magpies, or contact Auckland Council at pestfree@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz.

Two Magpies in a tree looking towards the camera.
Magpies were introduced to New Zealand in the 1860s.
Magpie standing on a park bench.
Magpies are distinctively black and white in colour.