As Storm Eowyn approaches, households are advised to be mindful of magpies in their gardens and how they can help during the storm.
These black and white birds often get a bad rap. Sure, they can be a bit pesky, but they also play a role in keeping our gardens healthy. They munch on both plants and meat, which helps control pests.
While they might snatch eggs from songbirds, they also help keep other harmful critters at bay. So, before you think about shooing them away, remember they might actually be doing you a solid.
GardenBird, a bird food supplier, points out that magpies are like the controversial figures of the bird world. Some folks love them, while others can’t stand them. Their cheeky antics can rub people the wrong way.
Interestingly, their rise in numbers has sparked a lot of mixed feelings. Some believe it ties back to old superstitions linking magpies to bad luck.
With Storm Eowyn on the way, gardeners are encouraged to leave out some tasty treats for the magpies. Kitchen scraps, fruits like raisins, oats, nuts, and even raw chicken can be great options.
This advice is especially important as Met Eireann has issued a Status Orange wind warning. It kicks in at 2 am on Friday and lasts until 5 pm.
Expect strong winds, with gusts reaching up to 130 km/h. This could lead to fallen trees, power outages, and tough travel conditions. Stay safe out there!
