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Spooky season is here! And no, we’re not talking about Halloween; we’re talking about magpie swooping season in Australia. This year, thousands of attacks have already been logged on Magpie Alert, including hundreds leading to serious injuries. And it gets worse...there are still two months to survive.
If the thought of being pecked on the scalp sends your heart racing, you're not alone. We’ve put together a bunch of handy hints to help you survive magpie swooping season in Australia (without being stabbed in the eye).
When is magpie swooping season in Australia?
In Australia, swooping season typically runs from late August through early November, peaking in September. But keep in mind that each magpie will only swoop for around six to eight weeks after laying their eggs.
Why do magpies swoop?
Cyclists and runners (aka anything moderately-sized and fast-moving) are prime targets for the six to eight weeks when the daring black-and-white birds build nests, incubate eggs and raise their young. They’ll stop at nothing to protect their chicks from suspicious passers-by, even if it ends in a bloody gash or swollen eye.
In good news, only eight to ten per cent of magpies actually swoop people. Even rarer are dive bombs that cause injury rather than just scaring you off.
Can magpies remember human faces?
Yes, magpies can recognise and remember up to 100 individual human faces for several years. They'll categorise each as a friend, neutral local or perceived threat. Once a magpie labels you as a threat, you'll unfortunately remain a target every swooping season.
How to stop magpies swooping?
Should you ever stumble into a flappy face-off, then be sure to walk calmly and briskly through the magpie’s turf. Gear up with shades, a hat, a helmet and an umbrella shield if you have to pass through the area again.
Bonus: You can sniff out swooping hotspots in Australia using this interactive magpie attack tracing map.
How to stop magpies swooping when cycling?
Dodging magpies on a bike is a sport in itself, and you’ll want to bedazzle your two-wheeler with flags and streamers or attach sticks to your helmet or backpack. Don't forget to stare the feathery acrobats down too, because they’ll think twice before swooping when you've got your eyes on 'em.
When does magpie swooping season end?
Magpie swooping season typically wraps up in Australia in October/November. Just another reason to look forward to summer!