With magpie breeding season upon us NSW Ambulance is advising people to be on the lookout for swooping birds.
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The NSW Office of Environment and Heritage advises that while magpies are usually friendly they become protective of their nests during breeding season which occurs between September and October and will often defend their territory vigorously.
NSW Ambulance Inspector Brian Parsell said injuries caused by swooping birds could range from cuts to the head and pecks to the ears to more serious outcomes.
"Every year NSW Ambulance receives calls for people suffering injuries from swooping birds and it can be very upsetting, especially for children," Insp Parsell said.
He said cyclists were of particular concern because attacking birds could cause them to lose balance and fall, resulting in a range of injuries, from open wounds to broken bones.
Insp Parsell said if people suffered bleeding from an open wound they should apply pressure to the area and ensure it was kept clean. Consider seeing a doctor who might recommend a tetanus shot.
If possible walk quickly and carefully away from the area where the magpies are and make a temporary sign to warn other people of their presence.
-try to keep an eye on the magpie while walking away. Magpies are less likely to swoop if you look at them. Alternatively, draw or sew a pair of eyes onto the back of a hat and wear it when walking through the area.
- wear a bicycle or skateboard helmet. Any sort of hat, even a hat made from an ice cream container or cardboard box, will help protect you;
- carry an open umbrella, or a stick or small branch, above your head but do not swing it at the magpie, as this will only provoke it to attack; and
- if riding a bicycle, dismount and wheel it quickly through the area. Your bicycle helmet will protect your head. You can also attach a tall red safety flag to your bicycle or hold a stick or branch as a deterrent.
The NSW Department of Environment and Heritage advises magpies are protected throughout NSW and it is against the law to kill the birds, collect their eggs, or harm their young.
If you feel a magpie is a serious menace, it should be reported to your local council or the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service on 1300 072 757.
Have you been swooped by a magpie or know a bad spot for swooping? Let us know by commenting below or emailing grace.ryan@fairfaxmedia.com.au
