First year here in Australia we were blissfully unaware of these aggressive birds. We were more concerned with shark attacks, deadly spiders, crocodiles, and venomous snakes and jellyfish, for example. Then one day hubby comes home looking to be in some pain and tells me he had been attacked by birds. He had torn his trousers and hurt his knee when forced involuntarily to throw himself on the ground and was generally shook up. The thing that was maybe a little embarrassing was that since it happened at work, walking back from the health and safety building, he had to make a safety report about it, since gravel had to be dug out of his knee and arm and Band Aids put on. He now figures in their safety-event register. I guess you have to make a name somehow!
I have read quite a few reports since about plovers attacking. They are protecting their nests and young ones. Since many people cycle to work I have seen these special helmets they wear with spikes sticking up to scare off the birds. Yesterday hubby showed me a safety brochure that was sent out where you were told to wear a big hat and also above all, don't make eye contact! (As if you would.) It also helps to have a taller friend walk with you. With the equally aggressive magpies you are recommended to look them in the eye. You just cannot win!
It is the week-end again and we are having a friend from Spain arriving tomorrow staying with us. I wish I remembered the Spanish I learnt before going to visit youngest daughter in Chile but I don't. I don't suppose I'll get many opportunities to speak with him anyway since he is here for work. We'll probably take him to Cronulla tomorrow though since it is the Spring Festival. They usually have lots of fun and games, and it is a good day out with food stalls with food from different countries.
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