That's right - reports of defensive magpies swooping the unsuspecting public have been circulating this week.

Being only July, it feels somewhat early for magpies to be diving out of trees unannounced.

However, according to an Office of Environment and Heritage spokesperson, magpies breed each year between July and November and are very protective of their chicks.

"As the weather warms up there is an increased risk of swooping magpies when adult birds are nesting and actively protecting their territory," they said.

"In the vast majority of cases the swooping is simply bluff however, sometimes birds can strike people causing injuries.

"Bike riders should dismount and walk their bike past the magpie until it no longer perceives them a threat."

Have you seen magpies swooping at a certain Maitland location? Add the location to the form below.

There are a variety of precautions pedestrians and cyclists can follow during magpie breeding season to make life a little easier.

All are advised to not deliberately provoke or harass the birds, as this may make them more aggressive, to take care as injuries can occur as a result of the birds striking, and walk out of the birds' territory immediately.

If possible, it's best to avoid the swooping area by taking an alternative route.

For those who can't, the OEH suggests wearing a wide brim hat and sunglasses or carrying an open umbrella.

"You can place eyes on the back of hats and umbrellas which may reduce the likelihood of the birds swooping," the spokesperson said.

"Keep an eye on the bird, as this may discourage attack and make a temporary sign to warn others."

While it can be unsettling at the time, the protective behaviour of magpies lasts only a few weeks.

"For the rest of the year the magpie is peaceful and valuable as an insect eater, renowned for its pleasant warbling," the OEH spokesperson said.

"Magpies are a protected species and it is illegal to kill them, collect their eggs, or harm their young."

For more information about the Australian Magpie, visit http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/animals/TheAustralianMagpie.htm