Swooping season in Brisbane is now in full swing. Occurring from July-February with peak activity between August-October, swooping is a behaviour perpetuated by certain territorial Australian birds, most notably magpies.
These birds infamously “dive-bomb” those passing by to protect their eggs and young chicks. Male adult birds are noted to exhibit behaviours such as beak clapping, whooshing above heads, and screeching at those nearby.
Fast-moving targets are more susceptible to being swooped, including cyclists, joggers, and dog-walkers are viewed as high-threat suspects to the young hatchlings.
This sort of swooping behaviour is generally recognised to last between six-eight weeks until the birds are old enough to leave the nest and fly away on their own.
Magpies have the ability to remember different individual faces, alongside enduring memories. If you have been swooped by a bird previously in your area, or even if you look like someone they have swooped previously, chances are that you will unfortunately be swooped again.
Despite magpies’ poor reputation, attacks are quite rare. Less than 10% of male magpies are reported to swoop, with research suggesting that swooping is a learned behaviour. Female magpies typically don’t swoop at all.
There are several recommended measures to take while the swooping season ensues, prioritising safety while still enjoying the outdoors.
It is best to avoid areas where magpies have been reported as actively swooping. This will last for about a month while the magpies’ chicks are still in the nest. If you do need to go in this area, stay at minimum 50 metres from the nest, or 100 metres if you are a cyclist.
If on a bike, it is safest to get off your bike in these areas and walk. Attaching cable ties to your helmet helps direct a swooping bird away from your face, importantly avoiding injury.
In the case that you are swooped, it is recommended to calmy and quickly walk through the area. Magpies generally swoop from behind, with some striking the head with their beak, claws, or eyes.
Wearing sunglasses and/ or a hat also helps to direct away birds when cycling or walking in active swooping areas. A slightly more extreme measure involves drawing a pair of eyes and wearing them on the back of your head, as birds are less likely to swoop if they believe they are being watched.
It is important to not act aggressively around them. If you wave your arms around or shout at them, the magpies will see you as a threat to the nest. Considering their persistent memory, it is best to remain calm around these birds at all times.
