Magpies are social birds and tend to congregate in flocks. Magpies are extremely territorial birds and will drive other animals away particularly during nesting periods from July to March. These attacks may result in injury to other birds and even people.
Magpies also eat the eggs of other birds.
Traps should be placed where magpies are normally seen feeding or gathering. Areas with pets or livestock around should be avoided. As the birds are caught live the traps require servicing at least once a day, preferably after dark. To kill a captured magpie wear gardening gloves and, grasping the bird over its back, remove it from the trap. Strike the head against the edge of the trap or a fence post.