WITH spring around the corner, Victorians are being reminded that the warmer weather will see the return of swooping birds.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
\u201cA 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,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
\u201cSwooping by a territorial bird is actually normal bird behaviour, although it\u2019s definitely not fun for their targets. Birds may swoop people or animals, so be mindful of your pets too.\u201d<\/p>\n
Ms Ashton said birds rarely make contact when they swoop, and while it can be frightening, steps can be taken to avoid real harm.<\/p>\n
\u201cSwooping is essentially a scare tactic to warn people and animals not to come near the nesting young,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
\u201cIf you have a plan of action and try to keep your distance, you\u2019re already halfway to living harmoniously with wildlife and keeping yourself safe at the same time.\u201d<\/p>\n
If you find yourself being swooped, it is recommended to remain calm, protect your head and eyes but don\u2019t run as this can upset the birds.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s 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\u2019re simply protecting their young,\u201d Ms Ashton said.<\/p>\n