Why do magpies swoop? Everything you need to know about magpie swooping season
Issued: 6 Nov 2024 4 minutes read

Avoid those feathered dive-bombs! Learn why magpies swoop and how to stay safe during Australia’s magpie swooping season.

Whether you’ve been accosted on a bike ride or dropped in on during a leisurely stroll, there’s nothing quite like the unique panic accompanying a magpie swooping. If you’ve fallen victim to the flurry of feathers and claws while minding your own business, you may be wondering – why do magpies swoop?

There’s some debate around whether magpie swooping is aggressive or defensive behaviour, so we’re here to set the record straight and provide practical tips to avoid getting swooped.

Why do magpies swoop?

First things first – magpie swoopings are not a random act of aggression. Magpies swoop mainly as a defensive action to protect their nests and young during breeding season – and it’s most common in the spring months when they are nesting.

Magpies are territorial birds and may perceive humans as a potential threat to their eggs or chicks. A swoop from a magpie is a warning sign meant to deter invaders from their nesting area, which usually covers a 100-metre radius from the nest. Swooping commonly lasts for around six weeks, ceasing once the young have gone off on their own.

That being said, not all magpies are swoopers – and those who indulge in this behaviour are likelier to take on the role of nest defender.

Remember: swooping is a natural protective instinct and not a random attack on you personally.

Why do magpies swoop cyclists?

Okay, so when it comes to cyclists, a magpie swooping is a little bit personal. Magpies may specifically target cyclists because of their bikes' high speeds and imposing size, which can (understandably) be seen as a significant threat to a magpie nest.

Additionally, the shiny surfaces and reflective gear often associated with cycling could attract the attention of a magpie or trigger a swooping response. Because cyclists also tend to take the same route regularly, our feathered friends may start to clock repeat visitors as a recurring threat to their nesting areas.

Close-up of Bird swooping warning sign during daytime.Open larger image

Some local Queensland councils put signs up around magpie swooping hotspots to alert pedestrians.

How to avoid getting swooped by a magpie

If you’re a cyclist or pedestrian in an area known for magpie swooping, we’ve got some easy tips to reduce your risk of an unwanted encounter.

Be aware of your surroundings: Keep an eye out for magpies and their nests, especially during breeding season (from August to November). Magpie Alert is a free, community-sourced website that tracks aggressive swooping magpies all over Australia – you can check it out to see swooping hotspots and log your own encounters. You can also head to your local council website for information on reporting swooping birds in your area.

  • Avoid the nest area: If you spot a magpie nest or know there’s one coming up on your route, try to take a detour if possible.
  • Safety in numbers: Magpies are less likely to swoop if you’re in a group, so it could be worth taking some walking companions if possible.
  • Carry an umbrella: Not only is this a sun-safe move, but carrying an umbrella can deter magpies by making you look larger. You can wave or hold your umbrella (or a stick) above your head.
  • Wear a hat and sunglasses: If a magpie does manage to make contact, a broad-brimmed hat and sunnies can protect your head from beaks and claws.
  • Get off your bike: If a magpie swoops you while you’re cycling, it’s likely to stop being aggressive if you hop off and walk.
  • Stay calm: In the heat of a magpie swooping attack? Try to stay calm and avoid sudden movements – this can help de-escalate the situation.

Magpie breeding season

Magpie breeding season typically occurs from August to November but can vary slightly depending on your local area. During this time, magpies are in full-on overbearing parent mode – they are particularly protective of their nests and young, making them more likely to swoop.

Magpie breeding behaviours

Magpies are highly social birds that form strong pair bonds. They build their nests in trees, using twigs, grass, and other natural materials. The female lays eggs, which she incubates for about 21 days. Both parents are involved in feeding and caring for the young.

Magpies will aggressively defend their nests to protect their babies from perceived threats – these include humans, other birds, and animals.

Tags

Related posts

More related posts