06/09/2025
If you live in Australia, chances are you’re familiar with magpie swooping. This is a defensive behaviour, carried out almost entirely by male magpies, as they protect their eggs and chicks during the breeding season.
In reality, swooping is uncommon. Fewer than 10% of breeding males will swoop people, yet the behaviour feels widespread. Swooping usually occurs between August and October and stops once chicks have left the nest.
If you do encounter a protective parent, here are some tips to stay safe:
🐦 Avoid the area where magpies are swooping and consider placing a temporary sign to warn others.
🐦 Wear a hat or carry an open umbrella for protection.
🐦 Cyclists should dismount and walk through.
🐦 Travel in groups, as magpies usually only target individuals.
🐦 Stay calm around magpies in trees – walk, don’t run.
🐦 Avoid making direct eye contact with the birds.
If you are swooped, keep moving. You’re still in the bird’s territory, so it will continue until you leave the area. Remember, this behaviour is temporary and will end once the young have fledged.
If you find an injured or orphaned native animal, call WIRES on 1300 094 737 or report a rescue via our website ⤵️
https://hubs.la/Q03GCZmZ0
