Swooping Birds

Published on 18 September 2026

Swooping Bird Magpie.png

If you've been out and about lately, you may have noticed birds such as ravens and magpies building new nests or renovating old ones high in the treetops. As spring approaches, many birds are preparing for breeding season.

For magpies, this can mean that some protective parents may soon begin swooping people they see as a threat to their young.

You may also notice plovers nesting on the ground in sportsgrounds, parks, roundabouts and on some building roofs. Like magpies, plovers may swoop people and dogs if they feel their nest or chicks are at risk.

It's important to remember that this behaviour is a natural part of parenting for these birds and typically only lasts for a few weeks. Magpies generally swoop within a radius of about 50 metres from their nest, and only a small number of birds exhibit this behaviour. Once the young birds are old enough to move around independently, the swooping usually stops.

How to stay safe around swooping birds

Do:

  • Avoid known swooping areas where possible. Look for warning signs or check the Victorian Government's swooping bird map.
  • Stay alert. If you need to pass through a swooping area, move quickly but do not run. 
  • Face the magpie and keep it in sight. Magpies are less likely to swoop when they are being watched.
  • Raise your arms above your head if a bird is swooping.
  • Walk with others where possible. Magpies are less likely to target larger groups.

Don't

  • Don't throw objects at birds or act aggressively. This may reinforce the bird's perception that you are a threat.
  • Don't panic or run. Stay calm and continue moving away from the area.
  • Don't approach a baby magpie on the ground. Young birds are often learning to fly and are usually being watched by their parents nearby. Getting too close may trigger defensive behaviour.

If you find an injured bird, you can report it through the Snap Send Solve app.
Wildlife Victoria volunteers can assess the situation and provide assistance if needed.

Key things to remember

  • Magpies are native wildlife, do not harm them.
  • Most magpies do not swoop.
  • Swooping behaviour is temporary and usually only occurs during nesting season while young birds are vulnerable.
  • The best way to avoid being swooped is to give nesting birds plenty of space and use an alternative route where possible.

By understanding why birds swoop and taking a few simple precautions, we can safely share our neighbourhoods with native wildlife during the breeding season.

 

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