As Brisbane’s swooping bird season reaches its peak in September, residents of Keperra and neighbouring areas are urged to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions. The Brisbane City Council has reported a total of 68 swooping incidents since July 2024, with Keperra ranking among the top five suburbs for reported cases.
Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner emphasised the seriousness of the situation, stating, “We take every bird swooping incident seriously and act appropriately to protect the community.” In response to the increasing number of incidents, the Council has implemented a proactive approach by installing over 120 new warning signs across 36 suburbs this year.
The effectiveness of these high-visibility signs, introduced in 2021, is evident in the declining number of reported incidents. From 1,193 notifications in 2021, the numbers dropped to 571 in 2023, and currently stand at 149 for 2024.
Despite this positive trend, Keperra residents should remain cautious. The suburb, along with Greenslopes, Carseldine, New Farm, and Bracken Ridge, has been identified as one of the areas with the highest number of swooping incidents this year.
Common culprits include magpies, plovers, butcherbirds, pee-wees, and noisy miners. These birds’ protective behaviour is driven by their instinct to safeguard their young from perceived threats during the breeding season, which typically lasts from July to January.
To minimise risks, residents are advised to:
- Avoid known nesting areas
- Wear protective gear such as hats and glasses
- Leave swooping areas quickly but calmly
- Refrain from provoking or interfering with the birds
The Council encourages residents to report aggressive birds, allowing for swift action in erecting warning signs and monitoring problem areas. In severe cases, qualified wildlife experts may be engaged to relocate birds posing serious risks to public safety.
As Keperra navigates this peak swooping season, the community is reminded of the importance of coexisting with native wildlife. By following the recommended precautions and staying informed, residents can contribute to a safer environment for both humans and birds during this challenging period.
Published 3-September-2024