WCC media release: Friday 19 August 2022

While only a small proportion of magpies swoop, we know being swooped by a magpie can be a frightening experience.

That’s why we’re calling on our community to let us know if they see any swooping magpies in our streets and parks this spring so we can put in some signage to warn others in the community passing through the area.

“For a few years now we’ve been proactively putting in “swooping magpie” signage in locations where the birds have exhibited this behaviour at the start of their breeding season,’’ Wollongong City Lord Mayor Councillor Gordon Bradbery AM said.

“By being on the front foot with signs and decals on the pathways we’re able to provide a visual prompt that warns people about the birds, who only exhibit this behaviour for a short period of time when they’re protecting their nest and their young. It also reduces the risk our community members will get an unpleasant fright.’’

Magpies are a protected species in Australia, and it’s estimated only about 10 per cent of the birds show swooping behaviour. There are some steps that you can take to reduce the risk of being swooped by a magpie. The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service recommends;

• Choosing a different route if you know there is a swooping magpie
• Wearing a hat or carry an open umbrella
• Walking a bike rather than riding it through an area with a swooping magpie
• Protecting your head and eyes
• Don’t run

While Council’s crews have already placed decals on the cycleway and updated signage at Woonona Beach where a magpie is known for its swooping behaviour, they have further signs on standby in case other birds are reported.

Community members can let us know about swooping magpies in our parks and public spaces by calling Council’s Customer Service team on 4227 7111 or filling out a report through Council’s website.