SPRING is the perfect time to get out and about on the bike, but it can also bring some unwelcome hazards for bike riders – of the feathered kind.
Whilst the magpie swooping season can prevent some bike riders from enjoying the pleasures of riding the local roads and trails, cycle safety advocacy group, RoadSafe North East, says cyclists should keep riding but take extra care in magpie swooping ‘hot spots’.
According to RoadSafe North East spokesperson John Weinert, advice given about avoiding magpie attacks varies widely and is often contradictory.
"Other recommendations are more practical, like posting on social media a local 'magpie map' to alert others, or taking a different route until the nesting season ends, typically by November," he said.
“One of the most popular tips is to attach cable ties or pipe cleaners to your helmet, while others believe flashing lights can scare magpies away.
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"Unfortunately, experts say there’s little evidence to suggest these tactics are consistently effective, and many of them aren’t very practical."
Studies have shown that magpies have excellent memories and can remember faces for a long time, so if a magpie has swooped at someone before, or a person resembles someone they’ve attacked in the past, there’s a good chance they’ll target them again.
While some unconventional strategies may work for certain people, the best advice is to respect these birds and all wildlife.
If you do get attacked; stay calm and avoid running, as that might provoke further aggression, quickly and calmly exit their territory and don’t wave your arms or shout.
And remember, all native wildlife in Victoria is protected by law, so it is illegal to harass or harm native birds and other wildlife without proper authorisation.
