Swooping Season is here
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In Spring cyclists and walkers may encounter swooping birds. The Department of Sustainability and Environment has issued some guidleines and has protective stickers available for helmets and hats.
Birds swoop to protect their nest, eggs or young. They have the potential to cause serious injury.
You are in their territory. Swooping and attacking is their defensive behaviour during the breeding season. Each pair of birds may nest for up to 6-8 weeks.
All our native birds are protected. There are serious penalties for taking eggs, harassing or causing injury to native wildlife.
Do not harass the birds, as they will be more aggressive. If a nest is destroyed, birds may make a new nest and the swooping behaviour will be prolonged.
HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF
- Avoid the area if possible.
- If you must pass through the area – move quickly – do not run.
- Bike riders should wear a helmet, dismount and walk through the area.
- Travel in a group.
- Draw a pair of eyes and attach to the back of your hat or bike helmet.
- Wear sunglasses on the back of your head.
- Wear a hat, carry a stick or umbrella.
For further information, contact the Department of Sustainability and Environment Customer Service
Centre, phone 136 186, your local council, park or reserve manager. Visit www.dse.vic.gov.au/swoop for an order form for sticky pairs of eyes for your helmet or hat.