Swooping season set to swing in spring

WITH spring around the corner, Victorians are being reminded that the warmer weather will see the return of swooping birds.

Native birds such as magpies and masked lapwings often swoop during breeding season to protect their young for six to eight weeks after they first hatch until they leave the nest.

Department of environment, land, water and planning senior wildlife management officer Amanda Ashton said less than 10 per cent of birds will swoop, however people should know what to do just in case.

“A small number of birds will swoop at this time of year. They do this to protect their eggs and young, we are all protective of our families,” she said.

“Swooping by a territorial bird is actually normal bird behaviour, although it’s definitely not fun for their targets. Birds may swoop people or animals, so be mindful of your pets too.”

Ms Ashton said birds rarely make contact when they swoop, and while it can be frightening, steps can be taken to avoid real harm.

“Swooping is essentially a scare tactic to warn people and animals not to come near the nesting young,” she said.

“If you have a plan of action and try to keep your distance, you’re already halfway to living harmoniously with wildlife and keeping yourself safe at the same time.”

If you find yourself being swooped, it is recommended to remain calm, protect your head and eyes but don’t run as this can upset the birds.

“It’s very important not to do anything to threaten the swooping birds, or interfere with their nests, or to feed them, and to remember that they’re simply protecting their young,” Ms Ashton said.

The best protection according to DELWP is to avoid areas prone to swooping and an interactive map for people mark affected locations is available at bit.ly/37OFUCo.