The belief that magpies steal shiny objects is a myth, according to animal behaviour researchers at Exeter University.
They carried out experiments on the birds by luring them with food and placing both shiny and non-shiny objects nearby.
In 64 tests, magpies only made contact with the shiny items twice - and often seemed wary of all the objects.
Council fights unreleased Ofsted report
Authority still rated inadequate
£550,000 Christmas windfall for Brixham pool
'It's time to celebrate!'
Girl missing from Newton Abbot
Christeen Madge could be trying to go abroad
Exeter to bid for unitary status in major council shake-up
City's 'powerhouse' role key to county success
Bomb squad investigates suspicious car in Cranbrook
Homes not yet evacuated
