Magpie Attacks

j.r.hawkins

Hmm spoke too soon - and I think he's moved.

Yesterday I was buzzed by one on the road between Millers Reserve and that new pre-school that I cut along on the way down from Allambie.

Man, the thing was persistent. It just kept coming - at least seven goes at me over a 150m stretch. There were cars around this time and it was REALLY distracting!

This morning I swished through there a little quicker and I wasn't sure whether the soft CRACK! sound I heard a couple of times was him or the straps flapping on my backpack. The sound was a little softer so if it was the maggie, he wasn't buzzing me as close as yesterday.

samcrx3

We have some nasty buggers in Bathurst. I have many fantasies on how to get maggies away when they swoop. I have tried eyes glued on the back of my helmet, and also on stalks. None of them worked. The only thing that has worked are the cable ties. Long ones and about 3 of them. It seems to stop them from getting too close. They still will swoop, but don't come as close. Some cyclists in Wagga BUG group do it and thought it was such a great idea. I have many stares and laughs but I don't care.
A couple of things I haven't tried yet but may work - a loaded water pistol and a bag full of mince, a large reflective outline picture of an eagle or owl (with big eyes) attached to backpack or jersey.
The waving arm above helmet works well for me too.
Cheers Sam

oystonp

Tried the cable tie approach today. Seemed to do the trick. A few maggies came close but none hit the helmut as they had in previous rides without the cable ties.

matagi

Having observed the birds in my area chasing away an eagle, I think it's possible the eagle/owl idea will make you the target of a lot more birds rather than scare them away because they will be paranoid about protecting their nests and more inclined to attack.

samcrx3

Yes, that's what usually happens - they don't attack the helmet. Another trick I used yesterday that seemed to work is an old CD/DVD disc with ribbon through it and tied like a necklace. I put it on and the shiny disc rested between my shoulder blades on my back. A maggie attacked my riding friend but not me. I'll see what happens on future rides.
Cheers, Sam

nicko85

CABLE TIES?? TINSEL?? EYES??

wow no wonder they are attacking us!!
lol

no i hate the bastards as much as the next guy but it just seems we have to suck it up a bit and just try to avoid the areas!!
i have noticed over the last few years they are becoming a lot more full on with their attacks, attacking 4 or 5 times before they bugger off!
out the back of the airport (wildwood) in melb is were we need to get the shot guns out!!!!!
they are brutal!!

j.r.hawkins

After reflecting on this issue the last few days, I think I've got just the thing.

Drum roll....

A tennis racquet!

Swish! Thok! NO more problem!