Be aware during swooping bird season

Be aware during swooping bird season

Spring is breeding season for many native birds, including magpies. Some birds may become territorial and swoop to protect their nests and young.

If you encounter a swooping bird:

• avoid known nesting areas and use another route where possible
• stay calm, keep the bird in sight and move quickly and carefully away—do not run
• protect your head and eyes with a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, helmet or open umbrella
• if cycling, dismount and walk your bike through the area
• travel in a group where possible, supervise children and keep pets under control
• do not provoke, feed, throw objects at or interfere with birds, nests or young.

Native birds are protected in NSW. Swooping is usually temporary and generally stops once chicks have left the nest.

Please take care on shared paths, near parks and along school routes. Report a swooping bird posing a public safety risk on Council-managed land to Wentworth Shire Council on (03) 5027 5027 or council@wentworth.nsw.gov.au, including the location, date, time and details of the behaviour.