Narromine Shire has issued an alert for an issue uniquely familiar to most Australians - the seasonal swooping magpie!

"All residents are reminded that it is magpie breeding season and magpies are actively protecting their nests. There are many reports of magpies on the swoop, please be cautious when out walking and riding bikes," the Shire cautioned on social media.

Magpie breeding occurs from July to February with the peak season in August and September. The female makes the nest on her own and lays three to five eggs which take around 20 days to hatch.

Females incubate and rear their young unaided to the fledgling stage. During this time the nest is defended by the male who is sometimes assisted by the female to chase off "threats" to the young

and its territory.

This means it is now prime swooping time!

While this swooping behaviour can be a frightening experience that often causes a flood of complaints to councils, injuries from this swooping are rare as the goal of the bird is to chase off the threat whilst protecting itself from undue risk and injury.

Little can be done to prevent the behaviour. It is best simply to be aware and prepared, Narromine Council advises.

Only occasionally will a bird actually strike the intruder on the head with its beak or claws. The NSW Department of Environment advise that during spring, a magpie will sometimes swoop on a person, clacking its beak.

"While alarming, it is usually just a warning, an attempt defend its family," they advise on their website. "This only happens during the nesting season, which lasts a few weeks. So if possible, use an alternate route for a while. A magpie may persistently swoop on a particular person yet ignore others."

Incoming! IMAGE: ABC

Narromine Shire reminds residents that magpies are native species to the local area and are protected species throughout NSW. It is against the law to kill or harm the birds or their eggs and nests, or capture the bird. Large fines and jail terms apply to offenders who capture, damage or kill native fauna.

Here are some helpful tips from Narromine Shire Council to survive swooping season and keep both yourself and the magpies safe.

• Get to know where the birds are breeding in your area and try to avoid them.
• Be aware that open areas with tall trees are likely sites to encounter the birds
• Use an umbrella and wear a hat (good for UV protection too).
• If the area is unavoidable, ensure you escort young children through any hot spots.
• The birds are less likely to swoop while you are watching them (putting some big eyes on the back of your hat helps).
• If you are riding a bike, get off and walk through hot spots.
• If you are swooped by a magpie, don't panic or run. If you don't have a hat or umbrella, simply place your hands over your head and keep walking.

All sites of swooping birds should also be reported to Narromine Shire Ranger Services. WIRES (13 000 WIRES or 1300 094737) or to the National Parks and Wildlife Service (02 9585 6333) can also be contacted regarding swooping birds.