After a milder-than-average winter, magpie season is already upon us. Reports are rolling in from around the country of maligned magpies actively targeting walkers and bike riders.
Magpies are clever, fiercely territorial, and will swoop from as far as 100 metres out from the nest. Almost all attacks come from males and are simply a defensive mechanism as they protect their offspring from anything seen as a threat.
That defence zone can be anywhere: suburban streets and country roads, parks and gardens, bike paths, school grounds and particularly rail trails.
There are plenty of wacky deterrents out there, and some of them work, such as vertical cable ties, silver foil and even attaching a party blower to the helmet.
Another option is to use the locally designed PieProof helmet that’s become popular over recent years - more about that below.
Best tips for keeping magpie safe
- Learn where the local swoopers are, give them room, and take the detour until the chicks have fledged.
- If you're already in a swooping zone, get off the bike and walk through the territory — calmly, and without dawdling.
- Always ride with sunglasses to protect your eyes.
- It helps to ride in a group.
If a magpie targets you
- Don't panic and sprint — it can only escalate the situation
- Move out of their territory quickly and calmly.
- Keep your arms down and your voice quiet. Flailing and yelling make it worse.
The PieProof helmet + how to win one
The PieProof helmet is the creation of Melbourne engineer and cyclist Leo Boesten, who grew tired of getting his ears nipped by swooping magpies and decided to do something about it.
A clever addition a set of removable neoprene covers that sit over the helmet vents at ear level, blocking the gap that an opportunistic beak tends to find with uncanny precision.
In winter, these same neoprene covers keep your ears toasty warm. The helmet includes an integrated rear USB-rechargeable light, also handy and reassuring during winter rides.
At $110 in either black or white, as Ride On magazine has tested, the helmet offers extraordinary value. Having worn it in every scenario from bunchies to gravel expeditions to urban commutes, the versatile PieProof is a genuine all-rounder.
Win One Of Two PieProof Helmets
Members have the opportunity to win one of two helmets. All you need to do to win is ENTER HERE and tell us why you need a new PieProof helmet.