Be Swoop Smart in Spring

With magpie nesting season returning in spring, the City is encouraging residents to observe a few key tips to stay safe through to season-end in November.

Magpies can act defensively to protect their young and may display swooping and beak clicking behaviour as a form of warning to those entering nesting areas.

Magpies are a protected native species under the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016, and it’s against the law to harm them or remove their nests, which can result in nestling death or a breakdown of the magpie tribe.

The City is advising residents to avoid swooping hotspots and report any magpie incidents to help balance community safety with preservation of the natural environment.

Swoop Smart tips include:

• Stay clear of caution signs and roped off areas
• Plan alternative routes
• Hop off bikes and scooters when caution signage is present
• Do not provoke birds
• Supervise children and ensure they wear sunglasses and a wide brimmed hat
• If swooped, cover eyes and face, look away from the bird and walk calmly away.

Residents are encouraged to report any magpie incidents by calling the City at (08) 9205 8555.