Magpie Juveniles

Hi,

Two days ago a juvenile magpie (still a bit fluffy under the wings and scrawny about the head) flew straight up to me as I sat on my back verandah and seemed to be expecting something of me.  We had a great deal of eye contact, much head tilting, and eventually my attempts at verbal communication were rewarded by by new friend throwing back his/her head and bursting into a beautiful song.  I rewarded him/her with a corner of my toast which was gravely received. We then both went about our business. Much later that day I went to get the washing in.  My new friend flew up and perched on the hills hoist. I took the washing in, and returned with a small piece of chicken.  Within about a minute I was surrounded by 12 more juvenile magpies, all of whom stood around looking at me. There were about 4 adults overseeing the event from trees nearby.   We have magpies around, but they generally don't make overtures as the kookaburras rule here. I haven't fed the magpies - one special friend is very different from 12!  

I absolutely believe these birds talk to each other.  I think the conversation would be something similar to "I found a place where food is dispensed: we should hang out, here are the coordinates. I'll call you when I spot the food source. Tell Mo and Andy".  I find myself in love!  I haven't fed them since, and sadly cannot tell which one is my special friend, but whenever I go in the back garden or veranda, at least four or five arrive within seconds.  

I am worried about feeding them - they are young and should be learning how to go on in the world without human intervention - so I haven't since that one piece of chicken. If my special friend returns, alone, maybe then we can further our acquaintance.  

Is it possible to become friends with a magpie without the bird becoming dependent on me for food? It seems to me that these amazing creatures are capable of higher order thinking, and I would value advice from someone who has made such a friend. 

powerful.owl