Springtime is just around the corner and for much of our native birdlife, it signals the start of nesting season.
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During nesting season, some parent birds may exhibit protective behaviour.
Peaceful for most of the year, magpies and plovers may swoop residents and pets if they feel there is a threat to their nest or hatchlings.
In the vast majority of cases the swooping is simply bluff, however sometimes people can receive minor head injuries as a result of swooping magpies.
While swooping magpies can be a nuisance, they are protected throughout NSW, and it is against the law to kill the birds, collect their eggs, or harm their young.
But surviving nesting season needn't be a nightmare! Here are our top tips:
- Avoid known hotspots
- Don't deliberately provoke or harass birds
- Take an alternative route where possible
- Wear a broad-brimmed hat and sunglasses or carry an open umbrella for protection
- If riding a bike, wear a helmet and sunglasses and fit a flag to your bike
- Keep an eye on the bird as this may discourage attack
If you feel a magpie is a serious menace, it can be reported to the council on 02 4868 0888.
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