The spring curse is once again upon us with that awful whooshing sound once again a common noise across the region.

As breeding season begins, humans and even unsuspecting dogs are likely to cop a swooping at many the city's parks, gardens and tree-lined streets.

Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) Grampians Regional Manager Compliance Operations Nathan MacDonald said the best way to avoid a swooping was to keep clear of known areas, but if you had to be near a nest, there are a few simple tips that can help you.

DO YOU KNOW OF ANY MAGPIE SWOOPING AREAS? Check out The Courier's Swooping Map below

"Swooping occurs every year during breeding season and is largely a defensive manoeuvre carried out by some male birds when we come within close range of eggs or fledgling birds," Mr MacDonald said.

"They are simply taking action to deter any threat to their young.

"Being swooped by a territorial bird isn't pleasant and can even cause injury. But the swooping is seasonal, healthy bird behaviour and so, if possible, the best response is to keep away from the area."

Among the best tips are to draw eyes on the back of your hat or a bike helmet as birds are less likely to swoop if they think they are being watched.

Another idea is to travel in a group and if you are attacked, put up a warning sign in the area warning others of swooping birds.

Mr MacDonald said it was also unwise to feed birds during swooping season

"It is illegal to harm native birds and offences can result in fines or imprisonment. It is up to us to co-exist peacefully with wildlife and respect it," he said.

"If you do end up in an area where there is a swooping bird, try to protect your head and eyes and move quickly through the area."

The Courier's nature writer Roger Thomas said there were some theories that could also help protect.

"Magpies do appear to get used to certain people, so often if they recognise you, they will leave you alone, They are quite smart, but it's not the same for visitors unfortunately," he said.

"A little aerial perhaps on top of a bike helmet also seems to work, although we're not too sure why.

"The (swooping season) usually stays around for about eight weeks when there are eggs and chicks.

"Plover's also do swoop too, but it's more the magpies you hear of making contact with people."

To report a swooping incident by any species of bird on Victoria's swooping bird map, visit delwp.vic.gov.au/environment-and-wildlife/wildlife/swooping-birds

Let us know if you've come across any spots not on the map

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