Experts share how to avoid getting mugged this spring

As spring progresses, experts share how to stay safe from magpies during breeding season.

Between August and October, magpies fiercely defend their nests by flying at anyone who comes too close and can cause serious injury with their sharp beaks.

There are, however, effective ways to prevent poaching, the Wildlife Information, Rescue and Education Service (WIRES), told FEMAIL.

The service recommends things like avoiding known magpie nesting areas, wearing a hat or using an umbrella. They also warn against eye contact with birds.

Female magpies will lay their eggs in mid-August and the males will protect the nest while it sits on them for three weeks until they hatch.

Each magpie will fly for a total of six weeks until their young hatch and are ready to leave the nest.

Danielle aka The Magpie Whisperer says there may be an unusual way to avoid the wrath of a magpie.

The licensed wildlife keeper, based on Victoria’s Bellarine Peninsula, said he had heard stories of people offering magpies in their food court to keep them company.

Magpies have an uncanny ability to recognize faces so they can show mild aggression towards people they have had good interactions with.

I can’t say it’s a guaranteed way. However, there is a chance that regular contact with magpies in a positive way, such as feeding them, can help reduce their aggression,’ Danielle told FEMAIL.

‘Although it’s important to remember that each magpie can be different in how they react, these stories show that building a close relationship with them through kind interaction and handling is worth trying.’

Foods including bread, mince, and chocolate are not good for magpies as their diet contains various bugs, worms and insects.

CONSULTANTS but does not encourage feeding native birds as they need to maintain a nutritious diet.

Those who have magpies living in their backyard or near their house may be at risk of being struck.

Magpies’ facial memory helps them distinguish between strangers and friendly permanent residents of their area with whom they get along well.

The organization also shared tips to prevent slippage including avoiding areas where magpies nest during breeding season.

People should not be aggressive towards birds by doing things like waving sticks or throwing stones as such behavior will reinforce their perception that humans are a threat.

Do not approach or attempt to look into their nests or come into contact with magpies and it is best to carry a hat or use an umbrella in known magpie breeding areas.

Heed the warning of a magpie that may be about to wander off.

If they see a perceived threat that is too close they will start by ‘hooting’ and flapping their mouths before pouncing.

Cyclists should dismount and cycle through the area as many injuries have resulted from falls while trying to avoid swooping magpies.

CPR Children also posted a guide to avoid being hit again and again people should move quickly in the area of ​​magpies rather than run away.

Danielle has been watching and working closely with magpies for over a decade and describes them as ‘incredibly intelligent and social birds’.

He said during breeding season magpies become more territorial of their nest and offspring and fly as they see humans as a potential threat but it is a common misconception that they are aggressive animals.

‘It is important to remember that this is a natural instinct and not a sign of violence,’ he said.

‘Understanding the difference between instinctual behavior and aggression is essential to fostering compassion and living in peace with these amazing birds.’

‘They’re just doing what any good parent would do – to protect their territory and their offspring.’