Pedestrians and cyclists in Dubbo have been warned about the dangers of swooping magpies.
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The magpie breeding season, which lasts for six to eight weeks, is at its peak now for attacks.
Dubbo City Council recommended residents stay clear of known bird nest areas and wear a hat and sunglasses as precautions if going near the spots.
"People should contact the council if a magpie is swooping. Then signs will be erected to warn pedestrians and cyclists of the presence of the bird," a spokesman for the council said.
"If a bird is causing physical injuries on a regular basis then the council will assess the site... to formulate a strategy to remove the bird from the area."
But, the council is not empowered to destroy the protected birds.
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A cyclist said he almost lost balance and crashed his bike when a magpie attacked him near the city centre last week.
"I was riding from the information centre on Bligh Street, and between there and the back door of Woolworths, he came at me," Ross Clarke, a retired train driver, said.
He had protected his head with his bike helmet equipped with cable ties to scare off birds.
Mr Clarke said he was swooped twice last year and one attack left him with a bloody neck.
"I was out walking and it hit the side of my neck, taking the skin off and drawing blood," he said.
He said it was very important that the public was informed so they could take the appropriate measures to protect and save themselves from being injured.
"People do not expect magpies to swoop them but when it happens you hear the birds rapidly flapping their wings and a crazy squawking coming from behind you and hitting your helmet," he said.