3 Ways to Keep Safe from Swooping Australian Magpies
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Australia is home to countless captivating wildlife creatures, but one particular bird that citizens have grown to exercise caution around are the Australian Magpies. Recognized for their beautiful black and white plumage, the Australian magpie breeding season (around August to November) can give way to an alarming behavior known as ‘swooping’. During this period, the otherwise harmless birds may perceive humans as threats to their precious nests or offspring, leading them to become aggressive. To ensure your safety while enjoying the outdoors during swooping season, here are three tips to keep yourself safe from these territorial birds.
1. Know the Hotspots and Plan Accordingly
Being well-informed and prepared can significantly reduce the risk of experiencing a magpie swoop. Aware of nesting areas—typically trees in parks or along streets—local councils often set up warning signs and maps as magpies tend to return to the same nest every year. Regularly verify which areas in your community are popular with swooping magpies using online resources like Magpie Alert (www.magpiealert.com).
Plan your outdoor activities, including walking or biking routes, accordingly to avoid such areas or remain observant when traversing known hotspots.
2. Adapt Your Appearance and Demeanor
Magpies are more likely to target unsupervised children, people traveling on bicycles, or individuals entering their territory alone. If you venture through a known magpie nesting area, make yourself less appealing as a target:
– Wear a wide-brimmed hat or helmet: This will provide some protection against pecking and ward off a strike.
– Attach cable ties or small colorful flags/ribbons onto your hat or helmet: The extra decoration might convince magpies that you’re less of a threat.
– Maintain eye contact with the bird: Magpies are less likely to attack when they believe they’ve been spotted.
– Keep calm and do not panic: Move away quietly and carefully without making sudden movements or loud noises when being swooped.
3. Report Incidents and Adapt Your Habits
If you have had an encounter with a swooping magpie, report the incident to your local council as proper documentation will help authorities track the bird’s behavior and establish warning signs accordingly.
Adapt habits to minimize your exposure during swooping season:
– Seek alternative routes: Choose a different path when walking, running, or cycling.
– Avoid known nesting areas: Heed warning signs to protect yourself and the bird’s territory.
– Respect wildlife: Remember that magpies are only protecting their young. Educate children on how to recognize and avoid swooping hotspots.
– Keep an eye on the season: Swooping usually starts in August and ends by November when the young have grown significantly.
By incorporating these tips into your daily routine, you can safely navigate Australia’s outdoor spaces while peacefully coexisting with the native Australian magpies.