According to those in the know, only 6-12% of magpie pairs have a swooping male (It's always the males!) It's their job to keep predators away and protect the nest. They tend to swoop for about six weeks in spring and can hang around suburban areas with grass and trees. And just like elephants, they have very good memories! They are likely to return to the same nesting spot each year, and can recognise people from previous years, so if you've been swooped before, there's a good chance it will happen again in the same spot. And there is little rhyme or reason to why they choose some people to menace over others - It's whether they like the look of you - or not!
How to avoid getting swooped
So, what can you do to make it through magpie breeding season unscathed?
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If you're out and about enjoying the warmer weather on your bike, walking your dog, or going for a jog, and you know there's a swooping magpie on the lookout, change your route.
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Magpies only swoop within about 100 m of their nests, so It's best to stay away from known magpie nesting areas.
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Magpies usually go back to the same spot every year, so if there was a swooping danger zone on your route last year, it is likely to be there again this year.
If changing your route isn't possible, here are some other tactics to avoid being swooped:
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Travel in groups, as swooping birds usually only target individuals.
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Carry an open umbrella above your head.
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Wear sunglasses and a broad-brimmed hat.
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If you ride a bike, walk it through magpie territory or have a flag on the back of the bike that is higher than your head.
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Do not act aggressively. If you wave your arms about or shout, the magpies will see you as a threat to the nest - and not just this year, but for up to five years!
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Walk, don't run!
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Stay calm and keep moving.
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Contact your local council to tell them about swooping magpie locations and ask if they will put up warning signs.
If you have a swooping magpie nearby and don't want to go walking, here are 3 quick exercises you can do from home!
