Australian magpies are notorious for a habit that can cause injury and distress to humans - swooping. Magpies swoop to protect their territory when they feel their nests are threatened during nesting season, but this action can result in skin and eye injuries. Though it is rare for a magpie to actually make contact, a swooping magpie can cause bicycles accidents, resulting in injury to yourself or others. Therefore, it's important for you to take precautions around these birds and leave them to their nesting as much as possible.