Queensland study finds magpies recognise faces and swoop on the same people

New research has revealed magpies can use facial recognition to target certain people, a timely warning at the start of swooping season.

Griffith University ecologist Dr Darryl Jones found that magpies can recognise and remember passers-by, the Brisbane Times reports.

In an experiment designed by Dr Jones, magpies attacked people wearing certain masks over a period of days, suggesting that they can distinguish between people and focus their attacks on particular victims.

However, Dr Jones also advised that only 10 percent of magpies attack people, with about half of that figure targeting pedestrians and the other half targeting cyclists or posties.

If you are being targeted by magpies, Dr Jones suggests maintaining eye contact with the bird while quickly walking away.

An online community has also been established to raise awareness about particularly bloodthirsty birds.

The Magpie Alert website tracks “aggressive magpies” across the nation, allowing victims to record and map their encounters.

The website has recorded 715 attacks across Australia this year, which resulted in 83 injuries.

One user, SoreEar, reported a bloody attack on Brisbane’s Kangaroo Point Bikeway this morning.

“No warning, didn't see or hear a thing - hit hard behind the left ear,” SoreEar wrote.

“Bled heaps, wanted to cry. Was cycling along the bikeway just past the Maritime Museum & probably only 10 meters from the Goodwill Bridge entry.”

The Brisbane City Council advises pedestrians avoid aggressive magpies, and report swooping incidents by phoning the council on (07) 3403 8888.