If you don’t know the number for your local council, you can look yours up here: https://www. australia. gov. au/about-government/states-territories-and-local-government or here https://www. lgnz. co. nz/local-government-in-nz/new-zealands-councils/

Groups of magpies tend to be more territorial, so if you see a nesting site with a flock of birds, that area will likely be more dangerous than a single nesting magpie.

Look for online magpie databases for your area and update the database where you notice nesting locations.

A magpie will only defend its nest so far. If you’re walking, it’s likely only to go 110 metres (360 ft), though it may go as far as 150 metres (490 ft) if you’re on a bike. [5] X Research source

Alternatively, take public transport or travel by car during this time period if you can.

Children will often react in a panicked way, running away and screaming; they do it without thinking so train them early to keep calm. The first swoop is generally a warning swoop, and a magpie can be severely injured or die from making contact via swooping. Often, it will try to avoid actual contact.

Stare down the magpie as best you can!

Off your bike, your helmet will protect you and you will not be distracted by a bird swooping in your face while riding. Walk the bike quickly out of the vicinity of the magpie.

In general terms, the killing of native birds and animals is illegal in Australia unless you hold a licence or have the relevant authorisation to do so. If you live outside of Australia, for example in New Zealand, check with the relevant local authorities if your Australian Magpie issue warrants exterminating them.

Another trick is to wear your sunglasses on the back of your hat or head.

You can use this tactic on its own or in combination with fake eyes. Try pipe cleaners in place of zip ties if that’s what you have on hand.

If the magpie does attack, it will likely go for the highest point: your umbrella.

You can also improvise other solutions, such as a newspaper. Anything you can use to cover your head will help. Be extremely cautious if you’re carrying a baby or infant. Panicking about a magpie attack and dropping the baby, potentially outdoors on a hard surface, could result in tragedy.