Magpies are highly intelligent and territorial birds that can become aggressive during nesting season. While their swooping behavior is mostly bluffing, magpie attacks can still cause injuries. Therefore, it’s understandable that you’d want to find effective and harmless ways to deter magpies from your property. There are several methods you can try to scare magpies away without harming them.
Why Do Magpies Swoop?
Magpies are naturally defensive of their nests and young. Swooping is their way of warning perceived threats to stay away. It usually occurs during spring and early summer when eggs and baby birds are in the nest. Once the chicks are old enough to leave the nest, attacks taper off. Here are some key facts about magpie swooping:
- It’s the male magpie that usually swoops to protect the nest.
- Swooping targets range from postal workers and cyclists to joggers and children walking to school.
- Magpies may single out individuals who get too close to the nest repeatedly.
- The birds will typically swoop within about 50 meters of their nest.
- Although swooping is meant to intimidate, magpies can sometimes make contact and cause minor injuries like scratches or pecks.
Knowing what motivates magpie attacks can help you take action to avoid nesting areas during swooping season.
When Does Swooping Season Occur?
Magpie swooping season varies slightly based on location. Here’s an overview:
- Northern parts of Australia – late July through October
- Southern parts of Australia – September through early December
- Peak times are August-October in most regions
Be extra vigilant during spring and early summer to avoid magpie nests and attacks.
How to Deter Magpies
Now that you know why magpies become aggressive and when attacks are most likely, let’s discuss deterrent methods. Here are some simple, peaceful ways to scare magpies and stop them swooping on your property:
Remove or Trim Back Tall Trees
Magpies prefer to build nests high up in tall trees that give them a clear view of their surroundings. Trimming back branches above head height or removing problem trees altogether will take away desirable nesting spots.
However, consult local regulations first, as rules may apply for cutting or removing mature, native trees.
Install Dummy Hawks or Owls
Birds of prey like hawks and owls are natural predators of magpies. Placing realistic decoys of owls or hawks near nests or around your property’s boundaries can deter magpies. Move them regularly so the magpies don’t realize they’re fake.
Type | Benefits |
---|---|
Plastic or wood carved hawk/owl decoys | Inexpensive, easy to find and position |
Taxidermy prepared birds | Very lifelike and realistic |
Reflective Tape and Tin Foil
Reflective surfaces like foil or metallic tape tend to scare away birds from gardens and homes. The flashes of light and movement disturb them. Hang strips of foil or reflective tape in trees and near entry points like fences and patios.
You can also tie reflective streamers or old CD discs to string and hang these around potential attack zones. The reflections and fluttering will help deter swooping magpies.
Scarecrow Sprinklers
Motion activated sprinklers designed to look like people or scarecrows are effective for scaring away nuisance birds. When the magpie flies nearby, the sprinkler is triggered, startling it with water.
Place these sprinklers near nest trees or along frequently used swooping paths. You can also pair them with reflective tape for added effect.
Ultrasonic Repellers
Ultrasonic bird repellers emit high frequency sounds that people can’t hear, but magpies and other birds find irritating. This discourages them from sticking around.
Look for a reputable brand designed specifically for deterring aggressive birds. Place them in trees near the nest or where attacks often occur.
Umbrellas
Open umbrellas are an offbeat way to prevent magpie swooping. The birds don’t like going near them.
Walk with an umbrella open above your head or stand a few open umbrellas in key spots around the yard where the birds tend to attack. The canopy effect startles magpies and obstructs their aerial attacks.
Remove Bird Feeders
Well-meaning feeding of birds like magpies encourages them to become more abundant and aggressive. Limit food sources by removing backyard feeders and bird baths during swooping season.
Clean up spilled seed, pet food, and trash that could attract magpies and other nuisance birds. Making the area less appealing helps redirect birds away.
Eye Protection
When riding bikes, wearing hats, and gardening, add an extra layer of protection from potential magpie strikes. Wear sunglasses or safety glasses to shield your eyes and attach zip ties or cable ties vertically to your bike helmet.
The protruding ties act like spikes to deter the birds from swooping too close to your head.
What Not to Do
Avoid any magpie deterrents that could harm the birds, children, pets, or the environment. Here are some things not to try:
- Poisoning
- Trapping and relocating birds
- Damaging or disturbing nests
- Pellet guns or firearms
- Mimicking magpie distress or alarm calls
It’s illegal to kill, harm, or even handle magpies without proper permits in Australia. Plus, any nest destruction or disturbance causes the birds more stress and aggression. Stick to harmless scare tactics only.
Conclusion
The good news is there are many safe, effective options for deterring problematic magpie behavior. With some simple preparations like properly timing activities, wearing protective gear, and using reflective and motion-activated deterrents, you can persuade magpies to move on from your yard peacefully.
Stay alert and avoid nesting areas during breeding season. And remember that while their swooping seems aggressive, magpies are just being protective parents. With some patience and harmless measures to seem less threatening, you can co-exist safely with these fascinating birds.