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“I know some people won’t agree with council’s approach of having aggressive birds relocated,” Schrinner said.
“However, these birds can be dangerous, and we are determined to put people first.”
He said anyone unable to avoid an area known to be home to swooping birds should exercise caution.
“If you must travel in the area, wear a hat or use an umbrella, wear sunglasses, and dismount off your bike,” he said.
“However, never panic and run if you are swooped.”
Since the 2021 review of council’s management plan for swooping birds, independent experts have removed 16 highly aggressive birds, including 11 magpies and five butcherbirds.
All native birds are protected under the Queensland government Nature Conservation Act 1992 and there are serious penalties for taking, harassing or injuring native wildlife.
“Once council is aware swooping is occurring the location is carefully monitored by our officers,” Schrinner said.
Swooping bird precautions
- Avoid the swoop area during breeding season.
- Travel in a group. Most birds only swoop individuals.
- Do not panic and run, as this only encourages a swooping bird to continue its attack.
- Wear a hat or use an umbrella over your head to keep a swooping bird at a safe distance.
- Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes.
- Cyclists should dismount and walk away from the swooping zone.
Things to avoid
- Do not deliberately provoke birds as this may make them more aggressive.
- Do not destroy nests as the birds may re-nest and extend the breeding season.
- Do not feed or try to befriend swooping birds.
“If further complaints occur or there’s an indication that a bird’s behaviour is escalating, we engage experts to undertake an assessment and remove the bird, if required.
“We’re encouraging residents to let us know where swooping is occurring, so officers can monitor birds and act when required.”