Beware swooping magpies: DPaW
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Department of Parks and Wildlife is warning people to be on the lookout for swooping magpies following an increase in reported incidents.
Magpies start to nest in Spring and the need to protect their eggs and young is very strong, according to DPaW officer Karen Smith.
"Male magpies are territorial and may swoop at people if they think their nest or offspring are being threatened, but they are only doing what comes naturally to them," she said.
Ms Smith said magpies could swoop and snap their beaks if feeling threatened.
"Although this can be alarming, if you confidently continue on your way the bird will often retreat to a tree and watch until you leave its territory," she said.
People should avoid looking towards swooping magpies or throwing rocks or sticks, DPaW warns.
DPaW's Wildcare Helpline can be contacted on 9474 9055 if people are concerned about aggressive magpies.
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