We all know the sound – a flap, a swoop and a squawk.
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Magpie breeding season has Queanbeyan residents ducking for cover in public places.
National Parks and Wildlife Service area manager Anthony Evans said for the most part magpies are friendly neighbors who help control garden pests.
Like most of us humans, Mr Evans said magpies are intensely protective of their young.
“They swoop because they are fiercely protective of their nest and young – any perceived threat to their territory causes some males to become aggressive,” Mr Evans said.
Mr Evans said a little bit of tolerance is needed throughout breeding season.
”“While a swooping bird can be very frightening, for these few weeks a year it best to be tolerant and avoid areas where magpies are known to swoop," he said.
““Usually, they are just giving us a warning and generally only defend within 100 metres of their nest site.”
As a native species, Mr Evans said it was an offence to harm magpies.
Tips to get out unscathed
- Try to avoid the area. Do not go back after being swooped. Australian magpies are very intelligent and have a great memory. They will target the same people if you persist on entering their nesting area.
- Be aware of where the bird is. Most will usually swoop from behind. They are much less likely to target you if they think they are being watched. Try drawing eyes on the back of a helmet or hat. You can also hold a long stick or umbrella in the air to deter swooping.
- Keep calm and do not panic. Walk away quickly but do not run. If you are really concerned, place your folded arms above your head to protect your head and eyes.
- If you are on your bicycle or horse, dismount. Bicycles can irritate the birds and the major cause of accidents following an encounter with a swooping bird, is falling from a bicycle. Calmly walk your bike/horse out of the nesting territory.
- Never harass or provoke nesting birds. A harassed bird will distrust you and as they have a great memory this will ultimately make you a bigger target in future. Do not throw anything at a bird or nest, and never climb a tree and try to remove eggs or chicks.
- Teach children what to do. Educating kids about the birds and what they can do to avoid being swooped will help them keep calm if they are targeted. Its important children learn to protect their face.
For more information visit: www.environment.nsw.gov.au/animals/TheAustralianMagpie.htm