Stay safe from swooping magpies this spring

Magpies breed between August and October and defend their eggs and chicks by flying low and fast to intimidate people who enter their territory.

While swooping magpies can be frightening, the birds swoop during nesting season to protect the area in which they find food, build nests and rear their young.

Magpies are protected by State and Federal legislation and the City urges people to follow advice from the State Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions:

• Stay clear of magpie nesting areas. Birds normally defend an area of about 100 metres around their nests.
• If entering a magpie’s territory, adopt a confident stance and watch the bird. If it swoops, move on quickly but do not run.
• Wear a hat and sunglasses to protect eyes and face, and carry an umbrella for protection.
• If riding a bike, make sure to wear a helmet and dismount and walk through nesting areas.
• Never deliberately provoke or harass magpies by throwing objects at them.

If you are concerned about aggressive magpies in your local area, please contact the Department’s Wildlife Helpline on 9474 9055.