It is nesting season for magpies and Redland City Council would like to remind residents that these overprotective parents may show defensive behaviour if they perceive a threat to their young.
The traditional breeding season for many swooping birds such as magpies, plovers and butcherbirds, runs from now until December.
Council’s Principal Adviser (Community Education) Ranger Stacey Thomson said some birds became overzealous during nesting season and, in the case of magpies, it was only the male that showed this behaviour.
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“Male magpies will swoop in what is called the defence zone – a 100m radius from the nest – or a bit further out when they want to discourage a cyclist,” she said.
“There is only a very small percentage that swoop everyone and, remember, retaliating by waving or throwing objects at the magpie only increases its agitation.”
Ranger Stacey said magpies can occupy the same territory for their lifespan.
“Some have been known to stay in the same area for up to 20 years,” she said.
“There is a magpie at the Sam Sciacca Sportsfields at Capalaba who has shown defensive behaviour for the past two years.”
Last year Council received 15 reports about defensive magpies.
Council’s Wildlife Team regularly conducts an education campaign which includes fact sheets about magpies, alert signage, and talking it through with people who have contacted them about an incident.
“By understanding the reason behind this defensive behaviour, and taking some simple steps to protect yourself, Redlands Coast’s human and magpie populations can get along just fine,” Ranger Stacey said.
How to avoid being targeted:
- It is important to respect birds’ warning calls and avoid the area if possible
- Use an alternate route or stay at least 150m clear of a nest area if you can
- Wear a hat and sunglasses, or hold a bag or umbrella over your head, if you cannot avoid a nesting area. Never throw or wave anything at the bird.
- Get off and walk your bicycle around nest areas. (This advice is often ignored which riles magpies the most. To the magpie it then becomes a race)
- If riding a bicycle, put spikes or flag decorations on your helmet
- Never approach or try to pick up a young magpie
- Walk quickly through the area, but don’t run. Walk in a group when possible
- If magpies are nesting in your yard, make friends with them. This can have great success. You can contact Council’s Wildlife Team for further advice.
Visit Council’s website for more useful advice on swooping birds.
