More Dangers from Australian Wildlife

The Australian magpie is an interesting bird: Australian Magpies are common and conspicuous birds, found wherever there is a combination of trees and adjacent open areas, including parks and playing fields. They are absent only from the densest forests and arid deserts. Groups of up to 24 birds live year round in territories that are actively defended by all members of the group. The group depends on this territory for all their feeding, roosting and nesting requirements.

And yes, they DO actively defend their nests. During nesting season (now), it is common to be "swooped" by these birds. Usually you hear a "clack-clack" noise and a whoosh as the bird flies perilously close to your head. If you're lucky. If you're UNLUCKY, it will actually hit you and peck you. Especially if you're on a bike, they REALLY seem to dislike cyclists.

Anyway, it's not just a nuisance, it's a threat. Witness what happened to this old lady in Newcastle.

An 84-year-old NSW woman has lost her lower left leg after suffering a rare soft-tissue infection caused by a magpie peck to her ankle.

Ouch. I told you it was dangerous here.