Biodiversity Month is a great reminder that our region is home to an incredible variety of plants and animals - including some very protective feathered locals.
As spring arrives, so does magpie breeding season. That means you might find yourself ducking for cover if you accidentally wander too close to a nesting magpie. While a swooping magpie can be startling, they’re not out to pick a fight – they’re protecting their nest and young. Australian magpies generally breed between August and October, with males defending their nests from when eggs are laid until their young have fledged. Ben White, Environmental Operations Coordinator at Port Macquarie Hastings Council, says a little awareness can go a long way.
“Magpies are an important part of our local environment, and swooping is a natural behaviour during breeding season. The best thing you can do is give nesting birds plenty of space and avoid returning to areas where you’ve been swooped.”
A few simple ways to avoid a swoop:
- Walk, don’t run. If you’re concerned, hold your folded arms above your head to protect your head and eyes.
- Walk with others. Magpies are more likely to target people who are on their own.
- Keep an eye on the magpie. They’re less likely to swoop when you’re watching them.
- Protect your head and eyes. A wide-brimmed hat, bike helmet, umbrella or glasses can help.
- Don’t provoke or harass the bird. This can make the situation worse.
- On a bike? Dismount and walk. It’s safer to walk through the bird’s territory.
Magpies have excellent memories, so if you’ve been swooped, it’s best to avoid the area while the birds are nesting rather than returning for another encounter.
You can also check and report swooping incidents through Magpie Alert, which tracks reported swooping locations across Australia.
This Biodiversity Month, take a moment to appreciate the wildlife we share our neighbourhoods with – even when they’re flying a little closer than we’d like.
Giving nesting magpies space is one small way we can all help protect our local biodiversity while staying safe during breeding season.
Have a question or concern about magpies? Contact PMHC on 02 6581 8111.
