SPRING has not yet sprung, but nesting magpies are already swooping unsuspecting Swan Hill residents.
The native birds breed from August to October and, as they are protective of their young, often swoop if they feel threatened.
Glen Smith, a Department of Environment and Primary Industries wildlife officer based in Swan Hill, said he was aware of two swooping birds.
One was on Campbell Street opposite the police station, while the other was near the intersection of Curlewis and Pye streets.
“As the weather starts to warm up, more birds will start breeding and swooping people as part of their normal breeding behaviour,” he said.
He said the best thing residents could do to avoid being swooped was to take a different route.
“If you do end up in an area where there is a swooping bird, try to protect your head and eyes and move quickly through the area,” he said.
“They are swooping to defend their eggs and young, and if they perceive you to be a potential threat, they may swoop.”
He encouraged residents to report any incidents via the Victorian Magpie Map on the DEPI website so other members of the community could avoid local swooping hotspots.
There was also a downloadable “Swoop Off” kit, including a printable warning sign and printable eyes to be attached to the back of hats or helmets.
Mr Smith said a single nesting magpie would swoop for anywhere between four to six weeks — the time it generally took for their young to leave the nest.
He said plovers, which were also known for swooping, would also start breeding soon.
“We want people to be aware and teach people to live these territorial birds. I think people are becoming more accepting these days,” he said.
To report a swooping bird, or for more information, visit www.depi.vic.gov.au
