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Canberra Today 13°/16° | Friday, March 29, 2024 | Digital Edition | Crossword & Sudoku

Look out! Magpies about

Magpie swooping season has begun.

MAGPIE swooping season has begun.

“Magpies are an important part of the Canberra environment and for most of the year they are good neighbours,” says Parks and Reserves ranger Nadia Kuzmanoski.

“During the six-week breeding season, however, they become territorial and may swoop people and other animals in the area of their nest to protect their young.

“Not all magpies are threatened by people, only some will swoop. It is important not to aggravate magpies or retaliate as they can become more aggressive if irritated.

“Magpies are generally gentle, timid birds, but during the breeding months they can become highly territorial. Not surprisingly, magpies become most aggressive after being provoked or harassed.”

Troublesome areas for magpie swooping are to be reported to Canberra Connect on 13 22 81.

[box] Advice to help avoid being swooped by a magpie:
walk through the magpie’s territory quickly, but don’t run;
take a different route next time;
protect your head with an umbrella, hat or helmet and your eyes with glasses;
attach a flag or streamers on a stick to your backpack or bike; and
don’t throw anything at magpies. [/box]

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