BATS!!!!

Now, not only do we have to contend with Magpies during the day. Australia sprung another surprise on us last night and we saw BATS. Yes Bats. Those little black, nocturnal (for Alie) flying mammals that turn into VAMPIRES.

We were sitting, minding our own business, at the bus stop last night and saw about four fly around (luckily across the road). I was so scared. What if it bit me? What if I turned into a Vampire? I need to be some garlic!!!!!!!!

FOR ALL OF THOSE PEOPLE who think we are paranoid regarding magpies. Found these articles

A national survey has found that 90 per cent of males and 72 per cent of females have been attacked by a magpie at some time in their life!

"Being the target of a magpie’s ire is an inevitable part of growing up in Australia. Or is it? Certainly, when magpies pounce, they can do real damage. The Injury Surveillance Information System (ISIS) is a national collection of hospital emergency department attendance records. Their data shows that of 59 magpie attacks, the eye was the birds’ most common target."

"Being swooped by a magpie can be alarming, but it is mostly bluff, with the birds acting on a natural instinct to protect their young"

There are some simple and effective steps people can take to protect themselves."

Measures to help prevent magpie attacks include:
- Avoid known magpie nesting sites if possible or give them a wide berth;
- Wear a helmet or a firm, broad-brimmed hat to protect your head;
- Hold an open umbrella over your head to deter swooping birds;
- If on a bike, dismount and walk away quickly; and
- Do not provoke the birds.