14 September 2018
5 precautions to stay safe from magpie attacks
August to November is magpie swooping season with its peak being in September. Magpie attacks can cause serious injuries, but before we pull out a baseball bat whenever we see a magpie just looking at us, we should recall that: The male magpies are just like overprotective dads trying to defend their eggs and their mate from possible threats.
If you take the following 5 precautions, you will be less likely to become a victim of a magpie attack.
- Avoid areas where magpie attacks have been reported. Check the website www.magpiealert.com. Also, help protect others by registering your incident with a magpie.
- Carry an umbrella with you or wear a hat to protect your head when you’re strolling through their breeding territory. If you don’t have either of those with you, pick up a stick to keep the bird away from you, in case he attacks.
- Keep your dog on a leash and if you’re cycling, dismount, so you won’t fall off your bike while trying to protect yourself. Did you know that the most common magpie related injuries are the results of cyclists losing control over their bike while being distracted by the bird?
- Face the magpie directly, as they usually attack from behind or as soon as you turn away. But make sure to wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from being scratched or pecked just in case.
- This is probably easier said than done, but try not to panic and don’t run away, as this often appears as aggressive behaviour to the magpie and provokes him.
Lastly, don’t ever harass a magpie by throwing stones at him, stealing his eggs, etc. They will lose their trust in humans and see them even more as a threat. Magpies are also protected under the State Wildlife Legislation.
Stay safe!
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