How to Survive Magpie Swooping Attacks

Feature image via Liam Kidston

EEEK!!! It’s Magpie Swooping Season again (end August to November) and we’re scared to even leave the house. Those black ’n white birds may see pretty innocuous but come mating season, they transform into ferocious swooping demons, hell-bent on attacking innocent pedestrians, cyclists, mums with prams, kids or anyone crossing their path.

So what can we do?

via Lifehacker

Here are some top tips to survive Magpie Swooping Season:

Did you Know - Most of the swoopers are male magpies defending their eggs and chicks, which are in the nest for about six to eight weeks between July and November.

1) Don’t fight back if a magpie swoops. Throwing things or shouting at a magpie are likely to make it more aggressive next time anyone else enters the territory around their nest.

2) Wear a hat (broad-brimmed is best) and sunglasses or take shelter under an umbrella.

3) Make a hat out of an ice cream container. If the magpie swoops, it hits the plastic and (hopefully) does less damage

4) You could also try drawing or sticking or sewing ‘eyes’ on the top or back of you hat.

5) Get to know where the local magpie nests are and avoid these routes during the breeding season.

6) Magpies usually swoop from behind so magpies will be less likely to swoop if they are watched constantly, or if people walk in a close group. So walk with friends.

7) Waving sticks or umbrellas in the air can help scare the magpie away.

8) Walk quickly but do not run. Put your folded arms above your head to protect your head and eye area.

Remember that magpies are protected in NSW and it is illegal to kill them, collect their eggs or harm their young.

If you feel a particular magpie is a serious menace, you can report it to your local council or the National Parks and Wildlife Service on 1300 072 757.