Spring Has Sprung… and So Have the Magpies!
As the flowers bloom and the weather warms up, another annual tradition returns to Australia: magpie swooping season! From late August to November, some very protective magpie dads take to the skies to guard their nests, often with dramatic flair.
Swooping: Not as Common as You Think
The good news? Most magpies won’t swoop at all. Only about 10% of them engage in this cheeky behaviour, and actual injuries are rare. Still, being dive-bombed by a beady-eyed bird is enough to send even the bravest jogger into a zigzag sprint!
How to Stay Swoop-Free
Want to avoid becoming a target? Keep calm and magpie on. Wear a wide-brimmed hat, carry an umbrella, or stick some googly eyes on the back of your helmet… Seriously, it works! Walk quickly through known swooping zones, and if possible, travel in groups (magpies rarely attack packs).
Enjoy Spring with Eyes to the Skies
Spring in Australia is beautiful, and a little magpie mischief is just part of the charm. Stay alert, be respectful of their space, and you’ll glide through the season with only a story or two to tell!
