Magpie breeding season is here and Central Coast Council is reminding the community to report any hot spots and 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 Manager Open Space and Recreation, Mr Brett Sherar, said magpies are usually friendly but become very protective and even aggressive during the breeding season which runs from now until the end of September.

“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,” Mr Sherar said.

“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.

“If you know of areas near you with a lot of swooping activity, please contact us so we post warning signs for other passing by,” Mr Sherar added.

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.