Every year, Australians are reminded of a unique feature of our springtime: the swooping season. Magpies, with their distinct black-and-white plumage and beautiful song, are well-loved birds across the country. But during breeding season, these typically friendly birds can get a bit intense! In this blog, we’ll explore why magpies swoop, how to keep yourself safe, and what to do if you’re injured by a protective 'maggie'.
What’s the Go with Aussie Magpies?
The Australian magpie is an iconic bird, recognised for its warbling call and clever nature. These birds are incredibly social and family-oriented, and they can even remember individual humans who treat them well. Outside of swooping season, they’re typically harmless, sometimes even playful.
During breeding season, however, magpies become protective parents. They swoop to guard their nests from perceived threats, which occasionally means some unlucky humans, cyclists, and pets get caught in the crossfire. This behaviour generally peaks from August to October, when magpies are actively protecting their eggs and young chicks.
Why Do Magpies Swoop?
Magpies swoop as a defensive measure to keep potential threats away from their nests. When they see a person or animal as a danger to their offspring, they may swoop in warning. The good news is that only about 10% of magpies will actually swoop, and most just give a bit of a scare without making contact (1).
Studies show that magpies are surprisingly good at distinguishing between individuals. They’re smart enough to remember friendly faces, so if you’ve previously interacted positively with a magpie, it might remember you as a non-threat.
Who’s Most Likely to Get Swooped by Magpies?
Magpies are more likely to swoop on certain types of people and activities. Cyclists, runners, and even those wearing wide-brimmed hats or reflective gear are common targets, as their quick movements or unfamiliar shapes can appear threatening to magpies (3). Bright clothing or shiny objects can also catch a magpie’s attention.
If you find yourself in a magpie’s territory, try to keep calm, avoid direct eye contact, and move slowly. Magpies are less likely to swoop if they don’t see you as a moving threat.
How to Protect Yourself During Swooping Season
Swooping season can be intimidating, but there are a few tried-and-tested ways to avoid getting swooped:
Wear Sunnies and a Hat: Magpies are less likely to swoop when they see themselves reflected in sunglasses, and a hat can help provide a bit of a barrier.
Walk Instead of Run: Slower movements are less likely to provoke a swoop, so stick to walking if you can, especially in high-risk areas.
Stick Eyes on Your Helmet: Cyclists and runners have found that adding eye stickers to helmets can deter magpies. They seem to think they’re being watched, which can stop them from swooping.
Carry an Umbrella or Stick: Holding an umbrella or a long stick can create a safe buffer between you and a swooping magpie. Just holding it overhead without waving it around can keep them at bay.
Avoid Known Nesting Spots: If you can, plan your route around areas where magpies are known to swoop. Sites like MagpieAlert track these spots and are updated by the community.
First Aid Tips for Magpie Swooping Injuries
If you do get swooped and scratched or pecked, here’s how to handle common injuries:
Minor Scratches: Wash the area thoroughly with soapy water, apply antiseptic, and cover it with a clean bandage.
Deeper Wounds: Seek medical advice if the wound is deep, as magpies’ beaks can carry bacteria that might lead to infection.
Eye Injuries: Eye injuries are serious, so if you’ve been swooped in or near the eye, get medical attention right away. Don’t try to treat serious eye injuries yourself.
It’s wise to watch for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or increasing pain, and seek medical help if these occur (2).
Keeping Kids and Pets Safe Around Swooping Magpies
Magpies can swoop on anyone they view as a potential threat, including pets and small children. Here’s how to keep them safe:
Hold Young Kids: If you’re in a high-swoop area, carrying small children may make them less likely targets.
Keep Pets Leashed: Dogs and cats can inadvertently enter a magpie’s nesting area. Keeping them on a leash reduces the chances of them triggering a swoop.
Consider Indoor Time for Pets: During the peak of swooping season, keeping pets indoors in known swoop zones can keep them safe from protective magpies.
Interesting Facts and Common Myths About Magpies
Australian magpies are unique birds, and they have a more complex relationship with humans than most people realise. Here are some fascinating facts and myths:
Not All Magpies Swoop: Only a small percentage of magpies actually swoop, and most of them don’t even make physical contact.
They Remember Faces: Magpies can recognise individual humans and remember who’s friendly and who’s not, which means that if you’re nice to magpies, they’re more likely to leave you alone.
Magpies Are Great for the Environment: These birds are brilliant at pest control, helping to keep insect populations in check.
Conclusion
Swooping season can be a bit nerve-wracking, but it’s all part of magpies’ natural behaviour. By taking simple precautions and understanding why magpies swoop, you can enjoy the outdoors without too much worry. And remember, magpies are actually a valuable part of Australia’s ecosystem and are generally friendly birds outside the breeding season.
Stay aware, stay safe, and appreciate these amazing birds from a respectful distance!
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Disclaimer:
The information in this article is for general purposes only and is not intended as specific medical advice. While we aim for accuracy, we cannot guarantee the information's completeness or reliability. Always consult a healthcare professional for medical concerns. Relying solely on this content without seeking expert advice is not advised.
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