Magpie Season – Watch out!

I’ve been a little busy of late. Zumba in the evenings, new job during the day – then I realised that it must be about time I wrote a new blog post.

As I walked towards my daughters’ school, I thought “Hmmm… what topic shall I post to the unsuspecting newbie arrivals”

Just then, it hit me – well, actually it nearly hit me – Bloody magpie season!

OK... maybe they don't look quite like this!

I know they are only trying to protect their young, but as soon as it nears the end of August, these birds seem to have demonic possession – it seems they don’t really want to just frighten you away, they are more interested in taking out an eye or removing a small chunk of ear.

I can’t say I’m really a fan of magpies anyway, but during the months of  August to November this little black and white feathered creature transforms from its status of being a slightly aggravating bird - to a savage suicide-bomber.

Of course it does have a good reason, after all it is nesting season, so it is only doing what any woman suffering with postnatal depression in a hot feathered suit would do.

In past years I have regularly witnessed this same sight at the same time of year…

The local postman veering his motorbike all over a busy road, usually waving one arm frantically above his head in an effort to stop the bird from persistently clacking its bill on his helmet – and not just once or twice, the bird usually takes it personally and actually wants the man dead… or at least that’s how it seems.

OK, it does make me burst into knicker-wetting laughter as an onlooker, and it does probably traumatise the poor postie – who must be miles away by the time the damn thing stops attacking.

Behind you!

So, just remember to watch out at magpie season – change your walking and cycling routes to avoid areas where they might be nesting or if all else fails, take a helmet/shield/suit of armour/oozie 9mm with you in your bag.

Add cable ties - some people swear by them!

Good luck!