Eye doctors have issued a warning about the dangers of swooping season following a recent incident in Melbourne. A cyclist named Christiaan Nyssen required major eye surgery after being attacked by a magpie while riding in Yarrawonga in 2021. The incident resulted in damage to his eye, but thanks to the skills of Dr. Elvis Ojaimi, an eye surgeon at Epworth Freemasons, Nyssen made a full recovery.
Dr. Ojaimi successfully implanted an imported prosthetic iris and lens to repair the injured eye. This case was the first of its kind in Victoria, and Nyssen’s vision improved significantly within a short period of four to six weeks.
As swooping season continues, magpies are becoming more adept at targeting their victims. This poses a significant risk, and hospital admissions due to magpie swooping are quite common during this time. Residents are advised to exercise caution and remain vigilant. Dr. Ojaimi recommends wearing sunglasses, particularly wraparound styles, as they provide essential protection.
In the past, some cyclists have attempted to use helmets with zip ties to deter magpies. However, experts have noted that magpies have become smarter and now target areas other than the head. They often swoop from the back and find a way around the helmet. Bird veterinarian Dr. Adrian Gallagher confirms this new behavior.
Swooping season typically lasts for several weeks, but it is expected to ease towards the end of the month. It is crucial for people to take necessary precautions and be aware of the risks associated with magpie swooping during this time.