For many Australians, the warbling, flute-like call of the magpie is as much a part of daily life as a morning cuppa or a stroll through the local park.
Whether you’re dodging a swoop in spring or simply enjoying their melodious dawn chorus, magpies are woven into the fabric of our suburban lives.
But in recent months, residents across Perth and southwest Western Australia have noticed something unsettling: the iconic magpie song is falling eerily silent.
Wildlife carers and experts have been left scratching their heads as a mystery illness sweeps through magpie populations, leaving parks and backyards strangely quiet.
WA Wildlife, a leading rescue organisation, first noticed the problem seven years ago, but the past five months have seen a dramatic surge in cases.
Hundreds of magpies have been found suffering from severe symptoms—limb paralysis, respiratory distress, and, tragically, many have not survived.
Dean Huxley, CEO of WA Wildlife, describes the situation as unprecedented. ‘In Willagee, which used to be overrun with magpies, residents haven’t seen a single bird in months,’ he says. ‘Even in my own neighbourhood, parks that were once bustling with magpie tribes are now almost empty.’
It’s not just bird lovers who are feeling the loss. Magpies are more than just a familiar sight; they’re a vital part of our urban ecosystem.
Their presence helps control insect populations, and their complex social behaviours have fascinated scientists and delighted generations of Australians.
But perhaps most importantly, their cheerful calls and quirky personalities bring joy and comfort to many—especially those who live alone or find solace in nature.
As Huxley points out, ‘People just love magpies. The loss of these birds is having a real impact on community wellbeing and mental health. Social media is full of people sharing their sadness at the disappearance of their local magpie families.’
The exact cause of the illness remains a mystery. While the symptoms resemble those of botulism and other diseases that have affected birds and flying foxes in the eastern states, early investigations suggest a different culprit may be at work in WA.
Dr Bethany Jackson, a wildlife health expert at Murdoch University, has been leading the charge to find answers. Her team has examined the bodies of affected magpies and found signs of inflammation in their brains and hearts—pointing to a possible viral infection, perhaps spread by mosquitoes or ticks.
The outbreaks seem to coincide with the warmer months, adding another layer of complexity to the puzzle. ‘We’re running every test we can think of,’ Dr Jackson says. ‘It’s intellectually fascinating, but also deeply emotional. We want answers for the public and for everyone who cares for these birds.’
While researchers work tirelessly to solve the mystery, one thing is clear: the loss of the magpie’s song is being felt deeply across Western Australia. Let’s hope that with community support and scientific dedication, we’ll soon hear that familiar warble echoing through our suburbs once again.
Have you noticed fewer magpies in your neighbourhood? Do you have fond memories of a local magpie family, or perhaps a story about a particularly cheeky bird? Share your experiences in the comments below—your observations could help researchers and bring comfort to others who are missing these beloved birds.
Also read: Experts urge caution following disturbing backyard images
