Swoop on tips for magpie season

Magpies breed between August and October and become territorial during this time in order to protect their young, hence why they swoop unsuspecting passers-by.

If you come across a territorial magpie, the Bunbury City Council is asking people to keep the following in mind:

Never deliberately provoke or harass a magpie. Throwing sticks or stones usually makes them more defensive. Magpies have good memories and they may continuously swoop a potential aggressor.

Avoid areas where magpies are known to swoop. Remember, magpie hostility lasts only a few weeks and they usually only defend a small area of about 100m radius around their nest.

Locate the bird and keep watching it when entering its territory. If it swoops, don’t crouch in fear or stop: move on quickly but don’t run.

When riding a bike make sure you wear a helmet, and dismount and walk through nesting magpie territory.

Wear a hat and sunglasses or carry an umbrella for protection. Magpies initially attack from behind but can swoop back around.

Adopt a confident stance as this can have a strong deterrent effect.

Remember that the magpies are just trying to protect their young.

Learning to live alongside wildlife is an important step towards building a better living environment and observing and listening to magpies can be an enjoyable experience.

If you find a sick or injured magpie contact the Wildcare Helpline on 9474 9055.

For information on registered wildlife rehabilitators and centres who can assist you with your enquiry.