Birds Attacking Drones: How to Fly Safely in Australia
If you’ve ever taken to the skies with your drone only to be dive-bombed by a territorial magpie or stalked by a curious hawk, you’re not alone. Across Australia, drone operators are increasingly reporting encounters with aggressive birds, from swooping magpies to full-on attacks from raptors. Understanding why birds attack drones, and knowing how to stop birds attacking your drone, can mean the difference between a smooth flight and a costly crash.
Why Do Birds Attack Drones?
To a bird, a drone can be many things: a threat, a rival, or just a noisy nuisance. Drones often mimic the flight patterns and sounds of birds of prey, which may explain why so many bird species react aggressively. This is especially true in nesting season when territorial behaviour is heightened. So, why do birds hate drones? Mostly, it’s instinct. Birds are hardwired to protect their airspace.
Which Birds Attack Drones in Australia?
Australia is home to some notoriously territorial birds. The most common species reported in drone conflicts include:
- Magpies: These birds are infamous for swooping during breeding season. Magpies and drones often clash due to the bird’s aggressive defence of nesting areas.
- Crows: Highly intelligent and inquisitive, crows can attack drones either out of curiosity or to scare them off.
- Hawks and Eagles: Do hawks attack drones? Absolutely. Wedge-tailed eagles have been known to destroy drones mid-flight, likely viewing them as a threat or prey.
Wondering, what birds take down drones? Raptors are top of the list, given their size and strength.
Do Birds Get Scared of Drones?
Are birds scared of drones? It depends on the species. Smaller birds may flee the area, but larger, more territorial birds may see your drone as a direct challenge. Do birds get scared of drones? Not if they think your drone is a predator. It’s best not to rely on fear as a defence mechanism.
How to Avoid Bird Attacks on Your Drone
How do I stop birds from attacking my drone? Prevention is key. Here are practical tips to minimise your risk:
- Know the breeding seasons: Avoid flying in areas with known bird activity during spring, particularly in August to November.
- Scout the area first: Walk around and look for nests or birds exhibiting territorial behaviour before launching.
- Ascend quickly: Get your drone above the attack zone fast. Birds usually strike at lower altitudes.
- Avoid hovering: Hovering makes your drone an easier target. Keep it moving in a predictable pattern.
- Keep your distance: Use zoom to get the shot instead of flying too close to birds or nests.
- Use deterrents cautiously: Some drone pilots use lights or reflective tape, but these can also attract attention.
What to Do if a Bird Chases Your Drone
What to do if a bird chases your drone? Stay calm and follow these steps:
- Climb or descend quickly: Change altitude to confuse the bird.
- Fly away in a straight line: Avoid erratic movements that may agitate the bird.
- Land if needed: If a bird is persistent, land immediately in a safe place.
- Don’t try to outfly raptors: Birds like hawks are faster and more agile than most drones.
If you’re wondering, can a bird take down a drone? Yes. Particularly larger birds like eagles. It’s not worth the risk.
Best Drones to Avoid Bird Attacks
What is the best drone to avoid bird attacks? There’s no model completely immune, but some drones are more agile and quieter, which can reduce attention. Look for drones with:
- Quieter propellers
- Longer flight range (so you can stay further from nests)
- Advanced sensors and return-to-home functions
- Obstacle avoidance, which may help evade sudden swoops
Are Drones Safe Around Birds?
Are drones safe around birds? Not really, if the operator isn’t careful. Flying too close to birds can disrupt their natural behaviours, cause stress, or worse, result in injury to the bird or damage to your drone. Flying Glass always recommends observing ethical flying practices and maintaining safe distances from wildlife.
Drones and Magpies in Australia
Spring in Australia means magpie swooping season. Drones and magpies in Australia have a history of conflict, with many drone pilots reporting aggressive mid-air attacks. If you absolutely must fly in magpie territory during breeding season, stay high, move quickly, and avoid black-and-white drones which might be perceived as rival birds.
Flying Glass Can Help
If your project requires aerial footage in a bird-sensitive area, you don’t have to risk your drone. Flying Glass has the experience and permissions to get the job done safely and ethically. If you can’t get the shots you need due to bird activity or local restrictions, we can do the shoot for you.
Want to Learn the Rules?
If you’re keen to fly your own drone but unsure about the rules around drones and birds in Australia, Flying Glass also offers drone training courses to help you fly commercially and legally. We’ll teach you everything from airspace awareness to ethical flying practices, including how to fly around wildlife safely.
Final Thoughts on birds Attacking Drones
Can a bird attack a drone? Yes. Should you take it seriously? Absolutely. By understanding how to avoid bird attack on a drone, and flying with caution, you can protect both your equipment and the native wildlife around you. Drones are an incredible tool, but they come with responsibilities.
Need help filming in a protected area? Want to become a certified drone operator in Australia? Contact us at Flying Glass today.