Spring's unexpected hazard

As spring arrives, bringing warmer weather and renewed life, it also means an unexpected hazard on the golf course: swooping birds. While we aim to promote biodiversity, the breeding season means that native birds, like magpies, magpie larks (pee wees) butcherbirds, and masked lapwings, are fiercely protective of their young.

When a golfer gets too close to a nest, the birds act instinctively to defend it. Their warning display—a rapid, low-altitude fly-by, sometimes with a sharp clicking of the beak—is a clear message to stay away. While these encounters are rarely harmful, they can be unsettling and startling, adding an element of surprise to your game.

Actions for managing swooping birds.

To minimise conflicts between golfers and protective birds there are some actions you can undertake to ensure both the safety of players and the well-being of the wildlife:

• install clear signage: place signs in areas where birds are nesting to alert golfers. This helps players avoid the area and reduce the risk of a swoop.

• communicate with golfers: about nesting season and how to act around birds. Remind them to respect the wildlife on the course and the birds' need to protect their young. Emphasise that swooping is a natural, temporary, and defensive behaviour.

• suggest actions golfers can undertake:

-    be aware of their surroundings: Pay attention to bird calls and warning signs, such as loud chattering or a sudden increase in bird activity in an area.

-   avoid harassing the birds: it is illegal to harm native birds, their nests, or their young. Never throw objects at them or act aggressively, as this will only reinforce their perception of humans as a threat and may make them more defensive in the future

-    move quickly and calmly: if a bird does begin to swoop, the best thing to do is move calmly away from the nesting area. Avoid sudden movements or swinging your club at the bird, as this can be perceived as an aggressive act.

-   wear a hat: a wide-brimmed hat can provide a physical barrier and make you appear less like a threat.