Australian Magpie
The Australian magpie is one of the most iconic and well-known Australian native birds.
They are known for their bold black and white feathers, beautiful carolling song, and adaption to urban environments.
The magpie has a healthy appetite for insect pests, making it popular with gardeners!
Why do magpies swoop?
Some native bird species, such as magpies, butcherbirds and plovers will display swooping behaviour to establish and protect their young in the breeding season (usually in spring from late August to early October).
They may display this swooping behaviour and act aggressively to deter other animals, pets, and people they see as potential threats to their nests and chicks.
This behaviour usually lasts only 4 to 6 weeks until the chicks are old enough to leave the nest.
If you are swooped by a bird, please consider the points below.
Living with Magpies - Steps to take with a swooping magpie
Avoid the area if possible until the breeding season has finished and find an alternative route.
If the area can’t be avoided:
- Try not to walk directly towards the bird. Avoid making eye contact.
- Walk quickly out of the area and be calm. Running, panicking and making lots of noise may cause birds to swoop more
- Wear a large hat, bike helmet or sunglasses
- When possible, travel in pairs or a group as most birds will only swoop individuals
- If you are on a bike, dismount and walk calmly and quickly through the area
- Report swooping birds in The Hills Shire via Council's website or customer service (9843 0555).
Council may install temporary signage to warn people in the area. Council does not capture or relocate swooping birds.
All native bird species are protected throughout NSW under the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016 and it is an offence under the Act to harm the birds, collect their eggs or harm their young without formal licenses or approvals.
More information