Watch for swooping magpies as the breeding season has started

Council is warning residents to watch out for swooping magpies this spring, as the breeding season begins.

“Most magpies do not attack, but during breeding season some individual birds can become aggressive in defending their nest,” says Council’s Principal Environment Officer Peter Milne.

Council puts up signage in areas where the public has reported swooping magpies. As the breeding season lasts several weeks, the best way is to avoid walking or cycling through these areas until breeding is finished.

If you must walk or cycle near magpie nests there are some simple precautions you can take:

• Travel in groups.
• Wear a hat and sunglasses or hold an umbrella over your head.
• To avoid the risk of falling, dismount from a bike and walk quickly through the area.
• Attach cable ties to bike helmets to distract the birds when riding.

“Council encourages residents to learn to live with magpies. In some unusual instances we may have to call in a contractor to remove the bird,” Mr Milne said.

For further information contact Council on (07) 5329 6500.

20 September 2016