MAGPIE swooping season has begun across Hervey Bay, with cyclists and pedestrians urged to take extra care on popular paths and around schools over the next six to eight weeks.

The annual behaviour coincides with breeding season, typically from late August through October (sometimes into November). 

Wildlife officers say swooping is a defensive act, mainly male birds protect a zone of roughly 50 to 100 metres around the nest while eggs are incubated, and chicks fledge. 

Only a small minority, about 10 per cent of males, target people, but those that do often return to the same locations each year.

Common hot spots include shared pathways, school routes, parklands and tree-lined streets where nests sit close to regular foot or bike traffic. 

Swoops usually come from behind, often with a warning clack of the beak or a brush of wings intended to push intruders away.

You can reduce the risk by detouring around known nesting sites where possible during the short peak period. If detours are not practical, safety tips include dismounting and walking bikes, wearing a brimmed hat and sunglasses, and carrying an open umbrella above shoulder height. 

Cyclists often add flexible cable ties to helmets to change their silhouette.

Facing the bird while backing away can also help, as magpies prefer to strike from behind. 

Children in prams should be covered and dogs kept on a short lead.

Fraser Coast Regional Council advises against feeding magpies at problem sites, approaching fledglings on the ground, or disturbing nests. 

Aggressive birds that create a genuine safety hazard can be reported to Council so temporary signage or management can be considered.

A few myths worth busting including magpies can recognise individual faces and remember negative encounters from year to year, so calm behaviour matters. 

It’s also untrue that magpies won’t swoop children, and it isn’t about ‘liking shiny things’, swooping is just a territorial defence.

Local walkers have already named ‘The General’ on the Point Vernon Esplanade pathway among this season’s early offenders.