Swooping birds

All Victorian native wildlife is protected by law, and it is illegal to harass or harm native birds and other wildlife without authorisation.

Swooping birds can be a frightening experience. However, not all birds swoop to protect their eggs and young during the breeding season, so don't be concerned simply because there are magpies or other common swooping birds in the area.

To easily identify swooping birds, see our list of common swooping birds, or check out our Flickr gallery.

Victoria's Swooping Bird Map

Being aware of swooping areas can also help us avoid venturing into these birds' territories and take extra precautions while protecting their nests and young.

The Victorian Swooping Bird Map shows locations where people were swooped, mainly during the annual spring breeding season.

Please note that this map is for information purposes only and is provided to help the community plan their route and avoid known swooping sites.

Land managers are responsible for managing risks caused by wildlife on their land. If you are reporting a high-risk matter that requires a response, please contact the DEECA Customer Contact Centre on 136 186.

DEECA provides swooping sign templates to local Councils across the State. Contact your local Council if a swoop site needs signs, or contact DEECA on 136 186.

You can toggle between two map layers showing swoop incidents for the current and the last year.

To toggle between map layers, click on the cog to the left of the "Find Location" field and select which year you want to view and which background map.

To add a new swoop site, click on the magpie to the right of the "Find Location" bar, and then find and click the location you were swooped on the map.