Magpies can be an absolute nuisance come springtime, and local cyclists perhaps understand the fear of these swooping black-and-white bandits better than most.
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Unlike most other species of bird, magpies [males especially] get especially aggressive during breeding season [August to November] in a bid to protect their young from perceived threats.
Renshaw's Pedal Project's Greg Bell said there's a number of locations around Bathurst cyclists regularly cite as magpie hotspots.
"There's one in Rankin Street between Piper and Lambert streets I've had issues with in the past, he'd follow me up to the Dudley Hotel and further along Stewart Street," Mr Bell said.
"A nasty one used to lurk around the Rocket Street rail bridge, and some real aggressive magpies are known to frequent areas around Perthville and Georges Plains."
There's also the existence of the magpie colloquially known as 'Swoop Dog', who is known to patrol the perimeter of Brilliant, George, Rocket and William streets.
Mr Bell said cyclists should exercise caution around aggressive magpies without compromising control of the bike.
"The best thing you can do is keep your head down and ignore it, because you put your safety at risk constantly scanning the environment for magpies," he said.
"Magpies definitely recognise faces and no matter what the consensus says, cable ties and fake eyes on the helmet don't dissuade them."
National Parks and Wildlife Service [NPWS] ranger Steve Woodhall says there are a number of simple steps to take to avoid swooping magpies.
"The most important thing to do is to not panic. Walk quickly but do not run, and keep your eyes out for magpies," Mr Woodhall said.
"If you are really concerned, place your folded arms above your head to protect your head and eye area."
"If you are on your bicycle or horse, dismount, as a major cause of accidents following a magpie swoop is from falling off a bicycle."
Mr Woodhall also said it's important to never harass magpies and to avoid areas where a swooping incident has occurred.
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