Magpie Superstition

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".

Artist: Sadie Barrow

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.