Are those berries in a large pod? Fruit production relies on pollination. If the flowers aren't properly pollinated then you won't get fruit. So perhaps this is the first time the flowers were adequately pollinated.

yes they are in pods. I didn't think about pollination. I have 8 beehives here & lots of hummingbirds but after mentioning pollination it occurred to me that this tree often blooms before any pollinators are out & about. early march is not unusual. several years it bloomed while there was snow on the ground. this year it is loaded with pods.

The typical Saucer Magnolia infrequently produces seed. Others, such as Star Magnolia, do so more reliably.

Do birds actually eat the seeds?

I think I read somewhere that Magnolias are pollinated by beetles rather than bees and such. Nice picture esh!

Yes, magnolias are pollinated by beetles, not bees or hummingbirds. Thanks, dingo, the rosy hue on these seeds of Magnolia tripetala were a treat to find. My trees bloomed for several years before they ever started setting fruit.

And yes, birds eat the seeds.