I think the magpie carries more superstition with it than any other bird. I always acknowledge a single bird, to show it respect and ward off any bad intent. First said to have been recorded in 1780, the magpie rhyme has many versions. Acknowledging and hailing magpies is a long-held country superstition.
"Many of us perform differing rituals and routines in the presence of a single magpie. Some raise their hats, some salute in military fashion, others cross themselves and some believe that seeing a crow immediately after a magpie will cancel out the unfortunate effects of seeing one of these chattering birds".
Some of the variations of the rhyme.
One for sorrow
Two for joy - Two for mirth - Two for luck
Three for a girl - Three for a wedding - Three for a funeral
Four for a boy - Four for a birth - Four for a death
Five for silver - Five for heaven
Six for gold - Six for hell
Seven for a secret never to be told - Seven you'll see the devil himself.
Eight for a wish - Eight you live
Nine for a kiss - Nine you die
Ten for a surprise you won't want to miss - Ten for a time of joyous bliss
Eleven for health
Twelve for wealth
Thirteen beware it's the devil himself.
Another rhyme says.
One for sorrow,
Two for joy,
Three for a girl,
Four for a boy,
Five for silver,
Six for gold,
Seven for a secret,
Never to be told.
Eight for a wish,
Nine for a kiss,
Ten for a bird,
You must not miss
Eleven is worse
Twelve for a dastardly curse.
Remember, always pay heed to that magpie.
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