Swooping is a normal, temporary behaviour for native birds like magpies, butcherbirds and masked lapwings to defend their eggs and chicks for a short time while their young are most vulnerable.
“Think of it as a warning sign,” said Lachlan Clarke from DEECA.
“They're telling you to keep your distance and while it can be a bit unsettling, it’s rare for them to make contact.”
Swooping can occur in urban or rural areas, including parks, gardens, and along bike paths.
“Not all birds swoop during the breeding season, so the presence of magpies or other common swooping birds does not necessarily mean you will be swooped,” Mr Clarke said.
“This behaviour only lasts a short time, usually ending once the young have left the nest.”
All native wildlife is protected by law. Harassing, harming or disturbing native birds and other wildlife is illegal in Victoria and penalties apply.
You can report wildlife crime such as harassing, harming or disturbing wildlife to Crime Stoppers Victoria on 1800 333 000.
Protect yourself from magpies
•Avoid known swooping hotspots.
•Move quickly, don’t run if near a swooping bird.
•Wear protective head and eye coverings.
•Don’t harass birds, as this can escalate swooping.
•Don’t feed birds or destroy their nests.
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