Springtime in Canberra......You can tell it's springtime here by the swooping magpies and the arrival of the sticky flies. When the magpies nest here they get very territorial and swoop everything that they perceive as a threat - dogs, other birds, people and cyclists. One of the sure signs of spring is the bicyclists who have tied computer cable ties and pipe cleaners to the tops of their helmets (through the vents). Other people put eyes on their helmets, which apparently scares the magpies off. Experts recommend that you even wear headgear made out of an ice cream container or cardboard box (really - http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/plantsanimals/TheAustralianMagpie.htm). I've heard that you should either not look them in the eye or look them in the eye (depending on who you talk to). I give them a wide berth as they are scary little critters.
The other sign of spring is the flies. When the weather gets warm here they get lots of flies. Sticky flies. They fly around your head and are supremely irritating. Everyone inhales at least one fly per summer, more if you are out cycling or walking, etc. I got buzzed by my first fly the other day which means that it's going to be a long, hot summer.
