Baringa Bikes director Scott Durston has warned cyclists across the 4551 postcode that magpie season is still in full swing, sharing a few tried-and-true tips to keep riders’ heads safe.
“Magpies swoop from August to November each year whilst they are nesting,” Mr Durston said.
“The Magpie will generally only swoop for around six weeks, until their young are out of the nest.
“There are a few tips however that can lessen your chances of getting swooped.”
- Stick some eyes to the back of your helmet. Magpies are less likely to swoop if they think they are being watched.
- If swooped, hop off your bike and walk. Magpies will feel less threatened, and it’s safer for you the rider to avoiding having a crash.
- Put some zip ties or streamers on your helmet. Even if you do get swooped, you’ll look good riding along.
- Wear sunglasses to help protect your eyes.
- When traveling with others, the Magpie will usually swoop the person at the back of the group. Keep your kids in front of you to lessen their chance of a traumatic event
One of The Aura Post’s delivery kids, Zac, has built-in spikes on his helmet to fend off airborne feathered foes, but there is another way to try to keep your head safe while on two wheels.
Mr Durston said you could plot your cycling route for a magpie-free ride by checking out swooping hotspots on an interactive map at https://www.magpiealert.com/.
