The Magpie: A Bird of Superstition and Symbolism

The magpie is one of the most recognizable birds, frequenting both the countryside and townscapes. Its noticeable squawk draws your attention, and if you spot one, you might quickly look around to find its mate to ward off bad luck.
Many people believe that the magpie is a bringer of bad luck, and it is common to see someone saluting magpies to repel this misfortune. The magpie also has a reputation for being a thief, attracted to shiny objects. However, this is not entirely true. While magpies do steal eggs from other birds' nests, this behavior is not unique to them. Like many superstitions, the magpie's reputation has roots in religious stories. It is thought that the magpie refused to go on Noah's Ark and did not comfort Jesus on the cross.

Saluting magpies is an old English tradition said to keep bad luck at bay. When encountering a lone magpie, the correct procedure is to say, “Hello Mr. Magpie. How are Mrs. Magpie and all the little magpies?” The superstitious can further protect themselves by spitting three times over their shoulders and flapping their arms like wings. My husband has his own version and cannot pass a magpie without shouting "Hello George!" He has also passed this little superstition on to our son.

Of course, the most commonly know superstition is related to the rhyme 'One for Sorrow', which dates back to the 16th Century, and is familiar in many cultures. Here's the full modern day rhyme for those who struggle to get pass the fourth line:

Magpies are extremely intelligent creatures, known to recognize themselves in a mirror and master builders of nests. An English folk tale called 'The Magpie's Nest' illustrates its skill and the irreverence of other birds towards it:

The magpie is also the symbol of my local football team, Newcastle United, chosen because of the colors of the team's home strip. The magpie was featured on the club's badge during the 1970s and 1980s.

Sarah Raad pointed me in the direction of the song by 'The Unthanks' - 'Magpie'. It's beautiful, and I have never heard anything like it. Slightly eery, the haunting vocals  perfectly captures the superstition and the beauty of the bird.

 

Sources:

 

Why Are Newcastle United Named the Magpies? - Who's That Team We Call United?

 

English folktales - The magpie's nest

 

The Folklore of Magpies - Owlcation

 

Magpies And Superstition | Saluting Magpies | Bird Spot