Magpie swooping season

Magpie swooping season starts in late August and we’re already receiving reports of Magpies swooping around the municipality. We’re urging residents to be cautious.

Native birds swoop humans (and their dogs) to defend their young for the 6-8 weeks between when they hatch and when they leave the nest.

• Avoid the swoop area – try walking or riding in a different direction. • Cyclists should always wear a helmet. It is better to dismount and walk your bike past a swoop area. • Put up warning signs for others who may not be aware that there are swooping birds in the area. • Travel in a group. Most birds only swoop individuals. *please adhere to COVID-19 social gathering restrictions • Usually they only swoop people facing away from them. • Try not to panic and run. It will only encourage a swooping bird to continue its attack. • Wear a hat in an area where there are swooping birds. • Holding a stick or umbrella over your head will often cause the bird to keep its distance.

Do not harass, interfere or throw stones at birds as this only makes them more aggressive and defensive. As all native birds are protected in Victoria, Council is unable to remove or relocate Magpies. Please do not harass the birds or their nests. Serious penalties apply.

Contact the DELWP Customer Service Centre on 136 186 or visit Victoria's Wildlife website.

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