Spring is Magpie swooping season

Throughout New Zealand, during their July to December breeding period, magpies are highly protective of their young, swooping on territorial threats such as animals and humans.

This is not one of the pests we manage however, we want to ensure our community are kept safe. Magpies like nesting in large trees with nearby open spaces - so they may live in sports fields, parks and reserves. Where we’ve had reports, we may put up signs to warn people to take care.

Consider the following tips for magpie breeding season:

1. Pay attention to nesting areas

If you see magpie nesting activity in trees in an area where you play, walk or cycle, consider avoiding the area and plotting a new route for the nesting season.

2. Never harass magpies

Don’t throw things at a nest, don’t climb trees where magpie chicks are nesting and don’t provoke adult magpies. They’re protecting their young and may become even more aggressive.

3. Cover up

Carry an umbrella (but do not wave it at the birds), wear a brimmed hat and sunglasses if you need to walk through an area where magpies are being aggressive. If you’re being dive bombed, raising something like a walking stick, closed umbrella, or flax stem higher than your head will cause the birds to attack that, instead of you.

4. Stay calm

If you find yourself in a magpie swooping territory and it’s too late to back out, stay calm. Walk quickly through the area but do not run. Teach children to stay calm too.

5. Be on the lookout and make eye contact

Be on the lookout in known nesting areas. Keep your arms up if you are worried. Magpies often swoop from behind, but they are much less likely to swoop if they are being watched directly. If you maintain eye contact with a magpie for as long as possible, it will be less likely to swoop.

6. Get off your bike

If you are on a bicycle, dismount. Bicycles irritate magpies and getting swooped on while riding can cause accidents. Your helmet will protect you. Walk the bike quickly out of the magpie’s territory.

7. Be understanding and considerate

Magpies are highly intelligent and family-loving, and they are trying to protect their young. You only need to be patient for a few short weeks during the nesting season.