Yellow-billed Magpies typically nest and lay eggs between April and June. They lay 6-7 eggs usually, and most times successfully raise 1-3 young. A very successful nest will produce 3-5 young.

Count active nests in the spring, by watching Yellow-billed Magpies carry twigs to the nest. Note the date and location of your nest observation, and count only nests you have confirmed magpies actively using. Even if you are unable to regularly monitor a nest, send us the location (nearest cross-streets, city, county) and we'll identify a volunteer to monitor the nest.

Here are the instructions and data sheet forms:

Click here for Nest Monitoring Quick Start

INSTRUCTIONS to monitor magpie nests (MS WORD)
INSTRUCTIONS (Pdf file)
MS Excel Data Sheet
MS Excel Nest Summary Data Sheet

Click here to learn other volunteer opportunities such as Counting at Roosts.