You sense it before you see it: the rush of wings, the snap of a beak and, if you’re unlucky, the sting of a clipped ear lobe.

Spring has arrived — and so has breeding season for many native birds, including the magpie.

Swooping can happen anywhere, including parks, gardens and along bike paths in both rural and urban areas.

Manager Statewide Wildlife Advisory Services at the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action Lachlan Clarke said swooping was a normal, temporary behaviour for native birds such as magpies, butcherbirds and masked lapwings to defend their eggs and chicks for a short time while their young are most vulnerable.

“Think of it as a warning sign. They’re telling you to keep your distance. While it can be a bit unsettling, it’s rare for them to make contact,” Mr Clarke said.

“Not all birds swoop during the breeding season, so the presence of magpies or other common swooping birds does not necessarily mean you will be swooped.”

There are ways to avoid being caught out by a protective bird this spring, including avoiding known swooping hotspots, wearing protective head and eye gear, and refraining from feeding birds.

Harassing, harming or disturbing native birds and other wildlife is illegal in Victoria and penalties apply.

This behaviour only lasts a short time, usually ending once the young have left the nest.

You can report wildlife crime such as harassing, harming or disturbing wildlife to Crime Stoppers Victoria on 1800 333 000.

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Monday, 2nd February 2026

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