SWOOPING magpies are becoming a familiar site in the South East as the breeding season progresses.
Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources animal welfare manager Dr Deb Kelly said magpie breeding usually happens between August and October.
“Swooping starts as soon as the eggs are laid as the birds are highly territorial and swoop on any perceived threat to protect their nests from predators,” Dr Kelly said.
“Magpies are not malicious, but the males will swoop on humans and other animals if they feel threatened and their beaks and claws can do some damage.
“The best way to avoid being swooped will detour around a magpie’s nest if you can.”
People are most likely to be swooped in public spaces such as parks, particularly where there are tall eucalypt trees.
Cyclists should walk rather than ride their bikes through magpie territory or alternately have a flag on the back of their bike that is higher than their head.
Swooping birds generally only target individuals, so it is safer to travel in groups.
It is recommended to not act aggressively and avoid making eye contact with the birds.
If you know of an area that has swooping magpies, put a sign up to warn passers-by.
Take a detour around known nesting sites – magpies will only swoop within 50m of nests and lapwings in an even smaller area.
