IT’S magpie swooping season, and warnings have been issued for known trouble spots at Woonona and North Wollongong.

During nesting season the black and white feathered terrors are notorious for their protective instincts and swooping behaviour.

Magpies are currently in their breeding season in the Illawarra and, as territorial birds, they will be more aggressive to protect their nests and young.

If they sense any danger, they will typically swoop people as a warning. This behaviour is not typical all year round, so it can be confronting for people who would usually walk or ride regular routes without a problem.

Another native species, Masked Lapwings (commonly known as plovers), can also display aggressive behaviour during nesting season, especially after their chicks have hatched.

Wollongong Lord Mayor Tania Brown said that, while it’s great to see the community out enjoying the spring weather, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings when near the native bird species.

“We’re now in that period of the year where magpies and plovers are hyperaware of potential threats and will mistake you as an invader,” Cr Brown said.

“The action of swooping is their way of saying you’re getting too close to their offspring, and you need to stay away.

“I urge residents to change up their usual walking or cycling routes during this time. The season is not long, but for your safety, please ensure you avoid nesting areas where possible.

“Swooping could be a scary experience for people, as most often than not, it is an unexpected run in. It can be especially scary for kids and pets, so I remind residents to keep watch and have small children close to you and dogs on a lead.

“If you’re a cyclist, you may be seen as a bigger threat because of the speed and size of a bike, so make sure to dismount and walk away or through the area.

“It’s rare to sustain an injury if an attack were to happen, however, if you encounter a particular menacing magpie or plover, please report it to Council so a warning sign can be put in place.”

Magpies and plovers are native protected species within NSW. This means community members are not to harm or antagonise them or attempt to move them on from their nesting locations.

Warning signs are currently erected at known problem areas on the shared path along Nicholson Park Woonona and at Edward Street North Wollongong (between Kembla and Church Street).

For more information on how to avoid getting swooped by a magpie, visit the NSW Government website.

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