Magpie breeding season is about to begin and Central Coast Council is reminding the community to take precautions around places where magpies nest.

Native birds, such as Australian magpies, are highly protective of their eggs, nest and young and will often swoop at unsuspecting passers-by if they feel threatened.

Council’s Section Manager Parks and Sportfields, Mr Keith Ollier, said magpies are usually friendly but become very protective and even aggressive during the breeding season which runs until the end of September.

“Magpies produce 3 to 5 eggs in early-to-mid August and females sit on the eggs for about 20 days,” Mr Ollier said.

“It is during this time that fast moving objects such as people and bikes and anyone really who moves directly towards their nests are perceived as threats and are likely to be swooped.

“Dog walkers and prams are also a common target.

“Swooping may seem frightening to us, however we need to appreciate it is a natural instinct for a magpie to protect their territory and offspring.

“Other native birds that are also common culprits on the Coast include plover, butcher birds and kookaburras, but even invasive species like Indian Mynas can attack at this time of the year.

“Don’t try to scare off the bird.  Wildlife is protected and there are serious penalties for taking, harassing or injuring native wildlife.  Taking this action can sometimes lead to a more serious and sustained attack as well.

“Our advice is to try to avoid nesting areas where possible, even taking a detour from your normal path.  Most magpies only swoop within about 50 metres of their nest.

Tips for surviving the magpie swooping season include:

• Avoid the swoop area, try walking or riding in a different direction.
• Cyclists should wear a helmet. It is better to dismount and walk your bike past a swoop area.
• Travel in a group. Most birds only swoop individuals.
• Do not panic and run. It will only encourage a swooping bird to continue its attack.
• Wear a hat in an area where there are sweeping concerns.
• Holding a stick or umbrella over your head will often cause the bird to keep its distance.

Council will be erecting warning signs of known swooping areas on public land.  If residents have a particular concern about a swooping bird they should contact Council on 4350 5555 or 4325 8222.