Gippsland › Latest news › South Gippsland Local News
Tips on how to avoid swooping birds for spring 2022 in Gippsland
Spring has arrived which means the season for swooping birds is also here.
Between July and November birds swoop as a warning to intruders in their territory. 'Intruders' can be people, animals, and even objects. when they are defending their eggs and young chicks. They often become more aggressive as the chicks get older, but swooping usually stops once the young have left the nest.
Being aware of swooping bird areas can also help us avoid venturing into these birds' territories and take extra precautions while protecting their nests and young
Reduce the risk of bird attacks
The bird will only defend its nest within a 'defence zone'. For pedestrians, this is usually an area within 110 metres and for cyclists it is 150 metres. Defensive behaviour can include pecking, dive-bombing and sometimes front-on attacks from the ground. Here are some tips on how to reduce the risk of a swooping bird:
- The best thing to do to reduce the risk from a swooping bird is to protect your head and move quickly past the area, without running
- If a bird swoops while you are cycling, it will probably stop swooping if you get off your bike and walk
- Wear a broad-brimmed hat and sunglasses or shelter under an umbrella to protect your face from swooping magpies (painting or sticking large 'eyes' on the back of your hat can also deter birds, but this won't work for cyclists)
- Avoid 'defence zones' by taking alternative routes during the breeding season
- If you must enter a 'defence zone', birds will be less likely to swoop if you maintain eye contact, or if people walk in a close group
- Waving sticks or umbrellas in the air or attaching a brightly coloured flag on a long pole to your bicycle can stop birds from swooping
The risk of eye injury means all bird attacks need to be taken seriously. Do not harm the bird or the nest in any way. See the Victorian government's swooping bird information and map.
Pictures from South Gippsland Shire Council website.
Source: http://gippsland.com/
Published by: news@gippsland.com
Latest News
Cann River fire damages three commercial properties and burns popular Squires Cafe to groundCommunity feedback wanted for the Wellington Shire Draft Budget 2024/25 by 29 May 2024
Appreciation to Bairnsdale volunteers for their support during Gippsland Rotary Centenary House fundraiser extended by Darren Chester
Baw Baw residents will get new purple-lidded glass bins collected separately every four weeks to better recycling process from October 2024
Exhibition by artist Matthew Bagley is captivating journey into ocean conservation at Berninneit Art Gallery
Outward Bound Australia praised by Darren Chester for their effort to revitalise Gippsland outdoor education
Penny Glover from Guthridge Primary School presented with John Printz OAM Award in front of a huge crowd at Sale Memorial Hall
Upgrades to Kalimna Hill trail in Lakes Entrance prioritises safety and accessibility for walker
Baw Baw Shire Council funds 28 community groups total of $105,303 from Community Grants Program
Free Masterclass sessions to promote safe and sustainable community events in Lakes Entrance and Bairnsdale over May 2024