Magpie attack warning

Magpies are protecting nests at this time of year and may swoop if they feel threatened.

Be on the alert for swooping magpies — that is the message from the Department of Environment and Conservation after receiving several reports of magpies acting aggressively towards members of the public.

DEC South West region wildlife officer Pia Courtis said magpies were most active at this time of year.

‘‘We expect the number of calls from concerned residents who encounter an aggressive magpie will rise sharply as we approach summer,’’ she said.

‘‘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 when defending their young ones.

‘‘Tall trees in the suburbs provide the perfect environment for magpie nests and the best way to avoid being swooped is to find an alternative way of passing their breeding sites for the six to eight weeks that magpies usually defend their nest.

Ms Courtis said the department also encouraged people to protect themselves by wearing a broad-brimmed hat and sunglasses to conceal their face and eyes.

‘‘People should not look towards swooping magpies and they should ensure children do not throw rocks or sticks at the birds, as this will only exacerbate their attacks,’’ she said.

‘‘If you are riding a bike and you are swooped, consider attaching cable ties to your helmet as a deterrent or even dismount and walk your bike through the area.

You may find you will not be swooped if you walk.’’

If magpies pose a serious safety risk to people, a dangerous fauna licence may be issued to remove the offending bird.

To contact the DEC about aggressive magpies, call the Wildcare Helpline on 9474 9055.