Bird nesting season has arrived, and some overprotective feathered parents may show defensive behaviour if they perceive a threat to their eggs or chicks.
Redland City Council would like to remind residents that the traditional breeding season for many swooping birds, such as magpies, plovers and butcherbirds, runs from now until December.
Acting Mayor Julie Talty said it was important to remember that retaliating by waving or throwing objects at a swooping bird, such as a magpie, only increased its fear and agitation.
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“Some birds unfortunately do become overzealous during nesting season,” Cr Talty said.
“But by taking some simple steps to protect yourself and being aware why the birds exhibit this defensive behaviour, it is possible for our human and magpie populations to get along just fine.”
Council’s Principal Adviser (Community Education) Ranger Stacey Thomson said certain magpies targeted certain types of people – cyclists, posties or people who have frightened them – while others targeted anyone who got too close to their young.
“In the case of magpies, it is only the male that shows this behaviour,” she said.
“Swooping behaviour only lasts for about six weeks but can occur any time during the nesting season.”
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Last year, Council received 19 reports about defensive magpies.
The highest number of incidents were five in Wellington Point and four in Thornlands.
Some tips to avoid being targeted:
- Respect birds’ warning calls and avoid the area if possible
- Use an alternate route or stay at least 150m clear of a nest
- Wear a hat and sunglasses, or hold a bag or umbrella over your head, if you cannot avoid passing a nesting area
- If riding a bicycle, put spikes or flag decorations on your helmet, and dismount and walk your bike around nest areas.
Visit Council’s website for more useful advice on swooping birds.
