The onset of Spring not only means the weather is getting warmer and flowers are blooming – it also signals the start of swooping season.
Native birds such as magpies, peewees, butcher birds and plovers become highly protective and can even become aggressive if they feel their nest and young are threatened in this period.
Though it can be frightening, swooping is an instinct for native birds, and trying to scare them off may lead to increased swooping behaviour.
According to Magpie Alert, a website where users can report magpie attacks, there were 13 magpie swoopings reported in the northern suburbs.
These sites include The Lakes SLSC at Budgewoi, Wallarah Rd in Gorokan, two incidents in Terilbah Pl in The Entrance North, three reports on Wilfred Barrett Dr in The Entrance North and one on Stewart St in The Entrance North and another on The Entrance Rd, The Entrance.
Other swooping sites include one on Tuggerah Pde in Long Jetty, two on McLachlan Ave in Long Jetty, one on The Entrance Rd in Long Jetty and two on the Entrance Rd in Forresters Beach.
Central Coast Council’s website advises locals to avoid nesting areas by taking detours if possible.
It suggests travelling in groups, as birds tend to swoop individuals, and to not panic and run as this can encourage a swooping bird to continue swooping.
Wearing a hat or sunglasses and holding a stick or umbrella over your head may deter some birds from swooping.
For cyclists, it is advised they dismount in swooping hotspots, as cyclists are more prone to be attacked.
Most importantly, Council recommends that the community does not disturb or harass native birds, particularly magpies as they can remember people who they consider a threat.
Harry Mulholland