It’s that time of year again when magpies start swooping as they protect their chicks.
The magpie breeding season lasts from July until December but the peak is from August to October.
During the breeding season, it’s best to stay well clear of areas where magpies are known to swoop.
Take particular care going through Huxtable Park.
If you can’t avoid the area, the best advice seems to be to move through it quickly but don’t run. Wearing a hat and sunglasses can help, and it is worth carrying an umbrella.
For safety, cyclists are best advised to dismount and walk through the area to avoid any risk of injury from a fall or collision.
Many cyclists find it helps to attach a couple of cable ties to the back of their helmet – tie them so they stick up towards the sky.
Swooping is done by male magpies who are trying to drive intruders away from nests so the swooping nearly always stops once you leave the area and the season usually only lasts about six to eight weeks.
If magpies are causing a particular problem, licensed contractors may be able to remove them – call the Queensland Government Department of Environment and Heritage Protection on 1300 130 372 for details.
If they are coming at you from the EAST you will get attacked by tail-feathers because they are flying backwards into the WESTERLY wind
ReplyDeleteI got attacked by a magpie 4- 5 times today until i ran into a building across the road for cover
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