SPRING is in the air and residents are being warned to be on alert for swooping birds.
Native birds swoop to defend their young for six to eight weeks while waiting for their babies to hatch and leave the nest. Magpies and plovers can be a particular problem during breeding seasons.
Almost 4,000 swooping attacks and more than 400 injuries Australia-wide have been recorded online in 2021 on magpiealert.com
Among reports made this September, an aggressive magpie targeting children was reported on Kialla Lakes Drive, Kialla and a violent bird swooping outside of Wyndam Early Learning Centre, Shepparton.
Being aware of and avoiding swooping hot spots during springtime are the most effective ways to deter a bird attack.
If you do attract the attention of territorial birds outside this spring, move calmly and quickly from the area while protecting your head. Do not run. Painting eyes on the back of a hat or helmet may deter attacks.
You should never harass wildlife, feed wildlife, or harm their habitats. Any efforts to disturb native birds or their nests during breeding season may prolong or encourage swooping behaviour.
Wildlife Victoria provides an interactive map that creates a snapshot of swooping activity for Victorians. View or contribute to the map by going to wildlife.vic.gov.au/managing-wildlife/swooping-birds
