With the arrival of Spring, Rockhampton Regional Council is reminding residents that this time of year is also the breeding season for magpies.
The breeding season runs from August and November with the peak period for magpies swooping taking place between August to October.
Planning and Regulation Councillor Grant Mathers said it is important for residents to be aware that there would be an increase of swooping magpies in the coming weeks.
"Swooping is a protective response to scare away what the magpies perceive to be a threat," Cr Mathers said.
"Depending on how territorial the birds are, magpies generally limit their swooping behaviour to a 100m-200m radius around their nest.
"All swooping birds found in the Region are native animals, and it is an offence to harm, interfere or relocate them without a permit issued by Department of Environment and Science."
The best methods to protect against magpies is by wearing a hat and sunglasses or using an umbrella.
"As the peak season lasts six weeks, the best course of action is to avoid that area where possible," Cr Mathers said.
