Yikes! It’s maggie attacking season
ONE telltale sign that spring is just around the corner is the overhead threat that is the dreaded magpie season.
The August-September period sends cyclists and pedestrians ducking for cover as the protective parents target passers-by in an effort to shelter their young.
And the feathered warriors are already causing chaos across the city.
Southern Downs Regional Council facilities manager Michael Bell said the council had received complaints about rogue birds in Australiana Park, Willi St, East School and Drill Hall and Weroona St, Stanthorpe.
Mr Bell added that council staff members were taking steps to have the animals moved to more suitable areas.
"Signs have been erected or will be erected and council has secured the services of a contractor to relocate birds at these locations from next week," he said.
"Council has received a few calls about some close calls with swooping magpies but no injuries have been reported."
Mr Bell said August and September are when magpies become active and protective of nests.
"Council urges people to give a wide berth of known magpie nesting locations," he said.
Tips on how to avoid being swooped by magpies include wearing a hat and sunglasses, waving a stick or umbrella in the air, watch the bird closely and travel in groups.
