Magpie swooping season is upon us. Here's how to avoid being attacked

Australia's annual magpie swooping season is once again upon us and understanding the birds' behaviours can keep you safe from an attack.

Magpies lay their eggs during September and become highly territorial, often swooping at passersby to protect their young.

"They attack for a very particular reason: they have a job to do," Griffith University School of Environment and Science Professor Darryl Jones said.

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Their "attack zone" is within a 100- to 200-metre radius from their nest with cyclists, walkers and runners most often the victims of attacks.

WIRES spokesperson John Grant said magpies will swoop and clack their beaks as a warning to intruders.

"They are not being aggressive just for the sake of it and the kindest thing to do is to cross the road where possible or avoid nesting areas altogether until the chicks have fledged," he said.

Australian authorities warn people never to approach young magpies that might've left or fell from a nest and not to fight back and yell if a magpie swoops.

"That will then prove you're a threat," Jones said.

Instead, it is advised to avoid attack zones if you are able to identify their nest and generally give magpies a wide berth during this time of year.

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If you must enter the attack zone, it is best to wear protective clothes like a hat or sunglasses and watch the magpie.

"They always come behind you and that's part of the deal," Jones said.

"Keep your eyes on them and back away. They'll never attack from the front."

Waving or holding a stick or umbrella over your head can also be used as a deterrent.

Cyclists are advised to attach a bright flag above their heads and attach cable ties to their helmet.

If a magpie begins swooping, stay calm and walk - don't run - quickly through the area.

Cyclists should get off their bikes and walk.

Magpie nesting time begins September and ends by October, according to WIRES.

Magpie Alert has recorded 1332 swooping reports and 152 injuries so far this year.

"Only about 10 per cent of the magpies ever attack anybody ... 90 per cent never attack anybody," Jones said.