Magpie swooping season underway

With magpie nesting season now underway, the City of Stirling is encouraging all residents and visitors to take extra care when outdoors for the next few months.
 
While the distinctive warbling of magpies is a pleasant feature of this native bird for most of the year, magpies may display protective behaviours such as swooping to protect their young from mid-August to November.
 
Mayor Mark Irwin said while it was great to take advantage of the spring weather by spending more time outdoors, it’s important for the community to be aware and prepared for magpies.
 
“We have about 500 parks in our 100km2 in the City of Stirling, so naturally that is home to a significant wildlife population, including magpies,” he said.
 
“We want people to stay as safe as possible by reducing the risk of being swooped, so we’ve taken steps to help increase community awareness but at the end of the day it is a natural behaviour for magpies.”
 
The City has recently installed signage reminding the community to take care at several popular parks including Clarko Reserve, Maurice Hamer Park, Jackadder Lake Reserve, Yokine Regional Open Space, Breckler Park and Dianella Regional Open Space.
 
Magpies usually swoop from above and fly low and fast over a person, often snapping their beaks as they pass overhead. However, instances where magpies swoop from below or ground level have occurred in the past.
 
If you are outdoors during this time of year, follow these tips to help reduce the impact of a swooping magpie:

• Look out for caution signage, stay clear of nesting sites and plan alternative routes
• Wear sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat (especially kids) or carry an umbrella
• Do not provoke magpies
• Travel in groups if possible
• If riding a bike or scooter, dismount and walk through nesting territory
• If you are swooped by a magpie, stay calm, walk away but do not run, and avoid looking towards the swooping birds.

To report a swooping incident within the City of Stirling, phone (08) 9205 8555.

For more information, head to www.stirling.wa.gov.au/magpies