Groups of magpies do cooperate. some years ago I saw about 8 to 12 magpies
at Runcorn Heath setting about a black headed gull which had damaged its
wing and could only fly continuously for 50 yards or so.
More recently a squad of magpies intercepted our cat when she was carrying a
mouse-she dropped it for them -and continued on her way.
David Taylor
"Rick McGreal" wrote in message
...
"sally.hemming" wrote in
:

We've got an even nastier crow that is taking out baby ducklings, baby
coots and this morning I've found remains from a hen pheasant who was
defending her three young chicks I spotted yesterday.

Do they work in teams then?
I can't see a single magpie take out a phesant....Not without a real
scrap...