WARNING - Magpie Swooping Season

Swooping Birds (PDF 431 KB) 

Please be aware that we have a swooping magpie located near our back gate (Glen Alpine).  It is advised, if possible, to use the front gate for the next 6 weeks.

Reduce your chances of being swooped!

• Do not deliberately provoke or harass the birds as this may make them more aggressive.
• Walk calmly through the area - DON'T RUN.
• Protect your head with a large, wide brim hat or carry an open umbrella; you can place eyes on the back of hats and umbrellas which may reduce the likelihood of the bird swooping.
• Wear glasses to protect your eyes.
• Keep an eye on the bird as they are less likely to swoop if you look at them.

Remember…

STAY CALM. Accidents can occur when people, particularly children, panic.  Swooping behaviour is temporary and will cease after breeding season. Magpies and Plovers are protected by the National Parks & Wildlife Act 1974 and harming these native birds and/or their nests is illegal.