Take care this swooping season

Wollongong City Council is reminding residents to look up and look out when out and about during nesting season, with both magpies and plovers keen to protect their offspring.

While these iconic Australian species are not aggressive all year round, nesting season can see magpies become territorial and more aggressive. People walking or riding their usual routes may suddenly encounter swooping magpies during this period.

Nesting season can also draw out aggressive behaviour from plovers, another native species that are fiercely protective of their nests. Plovers can exhibit particularly aggressive behaviour after chicks have hatched.

Swooping behaviour is typically just a warning to potential ‘invaders’, but it can pose a risk to residents should they encounter it unexpectedly.

“We all enjoy a walk or ride outdoors as the weather gets warmer, but this is also a time of year that native bird species start to exhibit nesting behaviour,” Wollongong City Lord Mayor Councillor Gordon Bradbery AM said.

“The aggressive behaviour normally occurs over a limited time span, so we urge residents to take alternative routes and avoid nesting areas where possible until the birds have moved on.

“While swooping is often just for show, it can be confronting, particularly for children and household pets. In any areas where swooping birds may be encountered, keep small children close and dogs on a lead. If you are riding a bike, it is best to dismount and walk through the area as quickly as possible.

“Attacks from either species that result in injuries are rare, but if you do encounter a particularly aggressive or menacing magpie or plover, please contact Council to identify the area so warning signage can be erected.

“Both native species are protected throughout NSW, with residents reminded they must not harm or antagonise these birds or attempt to move them on from nesting locations.”

For further information on how to avoid being swooped by a magpie, visit the NSW Government website at www.environment.nsw.gov.au/topics/animals-and-plants/native-animals/native-animal-facts/australian-magpie