As the weather gets warmer and the days longer, we also start to see the occasional swooping bird. Native birds enter their breeding season in spring, and some may get protective of their young.
Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) statewide wildlife advisory services manager Lachlan Clarke said it 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. They’re telling you to keep your distance. While it can be a bit unsettling, it’s rare for them to make contact.”
Swooping can occur in both urban and 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.
If you are worried about being caught out by a protective bird this spring, there are some steps you can take to feel safe.
These include avoiding known swooping hotspots, moving quickly, and wearing protective head and eye coverings.
Don’t harass birds as it can escalate swooping behaviours.
Report a swooping incident on Victoria’s interactive swooping bird map by visiting: wildlife.vic.gov.au/managing-wildlife/swooping-birds.
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.
