Aussie Slang Word of the Day is....
The Australian MagpieUpon moving to Australia I have been warned numerous times about the vicious magpies. In fact, there is an Australian Footy team named the Magpies. Which I, like many of you, found a bit humorous. Couldn't they come up with a more intimidating, dangerous creature instead of a harmless bird. We have magpies in Utah, and they always appeared to be quite pleasent creatures, so I didn't pay much attention to the warnings. Apparently in spring time since it's breeding season, for about 4-6 weeks the magpie mums can get a bit protective of their nests. I however didn't think much into it... I officially learned my lesson.
Friday I decided that it's time to get into shape. Spring is here and soon it will be summer, so it's time to get swimsuit ready. Feeling rather motivated, I decided to go for a run at the park near our house that has a really nice running trail. It was a beautiful, warm sunny day. I was thoroughly enjoying myself and feeling quite optimistic about this new work out regimen I had planned. After my run, I decided to go the extra mile and do some crunches and lunges on a grassy area in the middle of the running trail. Once that was done, why not add in some sprints up and down the field. Just as I was about to start running, out of no where something flashed past my face in a blurr. I couldn't make out what it was. It did it again... finally I look up and there is this magpie dive bombing my head. It continued to swoop at me multiple times. At this point I was in shear panic mode. A high pitch scream came out of my mouth and I proceeded to run down the field frantically flailing my arms above my head.. hoping to deter the ferocious magpie. However this did not work.. The magpie continued to swoop at me, coming inches away from my head, for what felt like ages. Finally the Magpie flew to a tree in the distance and stared at me looking rather pleased with itself. I have never been more terrified in my life. Trying to gather my composure, I cautiously walked back to my house, glancing at every tree I passed. At one point I came to a part in the road where I had to cross. I could see a Magpie flying back and forth across the road from the tree to the telephone pole. Would I dare cross into magpie territory after my near death experience... well I didn't have much of a choice. So I built up the courage, covered my head and made a mad dash for it. I continued to run until I got home.
Now that I have told you my horrifying Magpie encounter... let me share some information on Australian magpies. "Australian magpies are notorious for a habit that can cause injury and distress to humans - swooping. This nasty little habit, done to protect the bird's territory when it feels its nest is threatened during nesting season, can result in skin injuries, eye injuries and sometimes chunks of flesh being removed through contact with claws or beak." For more info click here
Tell me that wouldn't frighten the beejeebies out of you?
In case any of you have a magpie encounter.. here are some helpful tips on how to make it out alive.
1. Keep calm. This is the most important thing - do not yell, flap your arms about and run off screaming. This is a panicked reaction and is the worst thing that you can do. Unfortunately, it is something children often do, so train them early to keep calm.
2. Walk quickly but do not run. Be careful, keep your eyes out for magpies and if you are really concerned, place your folded arms above your head to protect your head and eye area.
3. Try to keep your eye on the magpie. Magpies usually swoop from behind and it is known that magpies are much less likely to swoop if they are being watched directly. This means the magpie must be able to see your eyes looking towards him. As you walk away, try to maintain this eye contact. You can also try walking backwards but only if the path is clear or you may injure yourself by tripping over something.If you are on your bicycle or horse, dismount.
4. Bicycles irritate magpies the most and this includes the local postie delivering the mail. The major cause of accidents following a magpie swoop is from a bicycle. Your helmet will protect you and you will not be distracted while riding by a bird swooping in your face. Walk the bike quickly out of the vicinity of the magpie.
The website-How to Keep Safe from Australian Mag Pies also suggested wearing protective gear while out walking, such as sunglasses, or safety glasses (they go for the eyes), a helmet or an empty ice cream container if you get a bit desperate. The website also suggested coloring eyes on the back of your helmet/ ice cream container, or tying bright twisty ties on top. Apparently this will frighten the Magpie.
My friend even suggested one of these....
I may have to look into purchasing one of these items... or an ice cream container. ;)
