MAGPIE SWOOPING
This video provides advice on what precautions to take during magpie swooping season
Magpies can swoop from July through to December (usually for about 8 weeks) during the spring while they build nests, lay and protect eggs and raise nestling and fledgling birds. Not all magpies will swoop but some will as a natural instinct to protect their territory (area around their nest) and their young.
People can protect themselves from swooping birds by:
- walk through the bird's territory quickly, don't run
- take a different route next time
- protect your head with an umbrella, hat or helmet
- wear glasses to protect your eyes
- watch the birds while walking away quickly from the area - magpies are less likely to swoop if you look at them
- protect your pet and do not leave them alone or off-lead in an area with a swooping bird
- don't let your pet attack birds as this may trigger swooping
- attach a flag or streamers on a stick to your bike or backpack and
- walk your bike through the bird's territory, don't ride.
All native birds, their eggs, young and their nests are protected by the Nature Conservation Act 2014 and the Animal Welfare Act 1992. It is illegal to interfere with them in any way. The ACT Parks and Conservation Service have a policy to manage swooping birds which takes into account legislation and public safety.
For further information visit the Environment, Planning and Sustainable Development Directorate website or phone the Access Canberra Contact Centre - 13 22 81 to report a swooping bird.