Wollongong City Council release: 24 August 2023

Wollongong City Council is reminding residents to take extra care when out and about during magpie swooping season.

For most of the year, magpies are not aggressive. However, during nesting they will often defend their territory forcefully. Anyone walking or riding past may be seen as an ‘invader’ and these birds will swoop the person or animal, clacking their bills as they fly overhead. Although this behaviour can be scary, it’s usually only a warning.

Magpies are protected throughout NSW. If you see a particularly menacing magpie, report it to Wollongong City Council by calling (02) 4227 7111, and we’ll install some warning signage in the area so that passers-by are aware they might be swooped.

“We know that many people in the Wollongong community love magpies and their distinctive warble,’’ Wollongong City Council Manager Open Space + Environmental Services (Acting) Vanni De Luca said.

“It’s important we safely share our natural environment with these birds and while magpies are harmless most of the year, when they’re nesting, they can become defensive and territorial. Magpie breeding season runs from about August to October, although swooping can occur right up to the start of summer.

“We ask people to take care around magpies at this time – remembering that most of them do not ever swoop. For that small minority of birds that do show swooping action, we ask people to give Council a call and let us know the location if it’s on public land, in one of the city’s parks or open spaces, or along a cycleway, as we can put some warning signage in place to let other people know.

“A tip for people riding bikes, if you see a magpie, dismount, and walk your bike quickly through the area. For those taking their dogs for a walk, make sure your dog is on a leash so you can take care of your pet and ensure they don’t attack or chase magpies.”

For further information on how to avoid being swooped by a magpie, visit the NSW Government website.