Magpies

Magpies are one of the most common native birds found in urban areas, including Wollongong.

For most of the year, they are not aggressive. However, magpies are known to sometimes swoop during the spring, which is their breeding season. It's estimated that only about 10% of magpies swoop, and when they do, it's usually only for a few weeks.

You can read about magpies' swooping behaviour and tips to avoid them on the NSW Environment and Heritage website.

Although it can be scary getting swooped, the magpie is a protected species and it’s an offence to harm them.

Council can put warning signs up at known swooping locations to alert people using those areas.

Use the button below to let us know if you've been swooped by a magpie in a public space, or call us on (02) 4227 7111.