Magpies – Swooping

Magpies are protected under the Wildlife Conservation Act and it is illegal to harm them. The City has no jurisdiction in the care, management or relocation of aggressive magpies during the nesting season. The Department of Biodiversity Conservation and Attractions – Parks and Wildlife Service manages all native fauna within the City of Joondalup.

In extreme cases, a particularly aggressive magpie may have to be removed from a site. Individual cases must be assessed by the Parks and Wildlife Service.

Nesting season usually occurs between August and November.

Any concerns can be reported to the Department’s Wildcare Helpline on 9474 9055 or alternatively the Parks and Wildlife Service website has some interesting information regarding living with magpies.

Magpies – Swooping

August to November is nesting season for magpies and occasionally male magpies become territorial to protect their young and may swoop if they think the nest or offspring are in danger. If you are swooped by a magpie, stay calm, do not run and avoid looking towards swooping birds.

To assist residents and visitors, the City encourages the public to report incidents involving territorial magpies; temporary warning signs will then be installed at the site to assist in planning your travels within the City.