Why Do Magpies Swoop Cyclists? Understanding and Navigating Australia’s Seasonal Bird Challenge

Why Do Magpies Swoop Cyclists? Understanding and Navigating Australia’s Seasonal Bird Challenge

Magpies swoop cyclists primarily as a defensive behavior during their breeding season, which typically occurs between late August and early October in Australia. During this time, magpies become highly protective of their nests and young, perceiving any potential threat as a danger to their offspring. Cyclists, who move quickly and often unpredictably through a magpie’s territory, are seen as such threats.

Several factors contribute to why magpies specifically target cyclists:

  1. Speed and Movement: Cyclists move faster than pedestrians, which can trigger the magpie’s defensive instincts. The rapid movement may be perceived as an aggressive approach toward their nest.

  2. Proximity to Nests: Magpies are territorial birds, and they tend to defend an area around their nest, known as their "defense zone." If a cyclist passes too close to this zone, the magpie may swoop to ward off the perceived intruder.

  3. Height: Cyclists, with their upright posture and helmets, may appear taller or more threatening compared to pedestrians. The elevated height might make cyclists a more obvious target.

  4. Noise and Reflective Gear: The noise from bicycles, as well as the reflective gear often worn by cyclists, may attract the attention of magpies, further triggering their defensive behavior.

Swooping is usually a bluff to scare off intruders rather than an attempt to harm. However, in some cases, magpies can make contact, potentially causing injury or leading to accidents if the cyclist is startled. This behavior is generally temporary and only occurs during the breeding season when the magpies are most protective of their young.

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Customer Reviews

Based on 233 reviews
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Pam A.
Love the Da Brim

I love cycling, but I am terrified of magpies. So much so during the months Sept - Dec I won't go anywhere near my bike, because of my fear of being attacked. Yesterday, I went out on my bike wearing a da brim, and even though I was swooped a couple of times, came away unscathed and relieved I was wearing a Da Brim.

C
Clay D.
Exactly what I wanted

I bought the da Brim not so much for sun shade (although it covers that issue very well) but as a major component in my anti-magpie-attack defense system. Combined with the bird repellent spikes on top of my helmet it works a treat. I admit to having doubts that the brim would handle winds and speed but that's all in the past now. I've tested it going downhill into direct wind at 40+ kph and it stayed in place with no flapping and no drag that I could notice. I might not look like a typical cyclist but while they are looking around nervously for oncoming black and white missiles I cruise on without a care in the world. The birds can't get me from above or below. What a relief. I'm just kicking myself that I waited so long.

G
GIM1962
Excellent sun protection and magpie deterrent

Da Brim was very easy to fit (Bontrager Solstice helmet). I have used it in various conditions and at speeds of up to 40km/h with no problems at all. A strong cross wind can be felt, but is not a problem. At high speeds Da Brim does not cause any issues at all. Best of all, no magpies have hit me or the helmet since I have put it on - this includes some known magpies that have taken pieces out of my ears previously.

R
Rebecca Q.
Much less pain

It's so good to go for a bike ride without the sun frying me!!

E
Erica, y.f.s.m.
Da Brims are Da Sh*t

I’ve been riding around with a stuffy cap rammed under my helmet for years then I saw a fellow cyclist with one of these saucer thingos on. I got one for myself and my husband. LIFE CHANGING!!!!! If you have been thinking about one just do it you won’t regret it. Also great for swoopie boy season ;)