Spring is blooming across the Bundaberg Region and Australia’s native birds are swooping in for nesting season.
While magpies might get all the attention, did you know other birds will also swoop people and animals in their territory during mating and nesting?
Magpie Larks, Noisy Minors and Plovers (Masked Lapwings) also become protective of their nests during spring and can act defensively by swooping intruders.
Bundaberg Regional Council’s Community Liveability, Sport and Recreation portfolio spokesperson Councillor Carmen McEneany said there were things residents could do to reduce the chance of an unpleasant encounter.
“Swooping birds can cause significant disruption to residents when their territory overlaps with your usual bicycle route or walk,” Cr McEneany said.
“While only a handful of birds become aggressive toward people, there are steps cyclists and pedestrians can take to protect themselves.
“Try a different path around an area with nesting birds and walk rather than cycle where birds are active.
“If you are swooped, it is important to protect your eyes but try not to scream or flail your arms.
“Magpies in particular have good facial recognition, so being friendly and calm toward them may help them to see you as less of a risk.
“Stay calm and leave the area promptly but without running.”
Tips for avoiding swooping birds:
- Try a different route
- Wear a wide-brim hat
- Get off your bike and walk with it
- Walk away from the area
- Walk in groups as magpies tend to go for individuals
- Look for warning signs in local parks and pathways and avoid those areas
Cr McEneany said the birds that commonly swooped in the Bundaberg Region were native animals and should not be harmed in an attempt to prevent their natural behaviour.
“Nesting season is only for a short period each year, when the birds are hatching,” Cr McEneany said.
“We are sharing these spaces with wildlife and it’s only natural they want to protect their young.”
The Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI) provide information regarding magpie behaviour, how to stay safe and a range of resources. Visit their website for more.
