swooping

Swooping is the rapid, often curving downward flight of a bird or other aerial animal as it moves toward a target, prey, or defender. In avian contexts, a swoop typically begins from a higher altitude and continues in a steep or arc-like descent before striking or passing overhead. The term is used more broadly to describe any sudden, dramatic descent or dive, not limited to hunting.

In birds, swoops are employed for catching flying prey such as insects or small vertebrates, defending nesting sites, or performing courtship displays. The precise trajectory varies by species: some birds perform a steep stoop—an accelerated diving dive from above—while others execute a shallower swoop with wings folded or partially spread.

Common examples include birds of prey like peregrine falcons and goshawks, which use high-speed stoops; swallows and swifts that arc and snap insects mid-air; and corvids (such as magpies) that swoop to deter intruders or threats near their nests.

In human-wildlife contexts, swooping birds, especially nesting magpies in parts of Australia, can pose risks to people. Preventive measures include avoiding known nesting areas during breeding season, traveling in groups, wearing protective headgear and sunglasses, and altering routes or using deterrents to discourage birds from swooping.

See also: Flight mechanics; Aerial hunting; Stooping.