Dealing with local wildlife is a part of everyday life, particularly in certain areas. Even delivery workers can face unexpected encounters with nature, occasionally leading to delays that take everyone by surprise.

These moments serve as a reminder that sharing spaces with wildlife comes with its own challenges, often requiring patience and adaptability.


Recently, an Australia Post delivery excuse went viral for its honesty and uniquely Australian flavour.

Instead of the all-too-common 'Sorry I missed you' card, one postman left a note that has everyone nodding in agreement:

'Sorry, I couldn't get to the door. The curlews were losing their s***.'


The recipient of the note took to social media to share the amusing incident, explaining that the 'curlews in question' were a pair of bush stone curlews nesting in their yard.

Known for their protective nature, especially when they have chicks, these birds can be pretty intimidating.

The poster added a fun fact for the uninitiated: the call of the bush stone-curlew can sound eerily like a woman screaming.


Australians across the country chimed in with their support for the postman's decision to avoid a confrontation with the agitated birds.

One commenter praised the postie for not resorting to a 'b******* excuse for laziness,' while another celebrated the 'reasonable' explanation.

A third humorously suggested that Australia Post might have a new policy: 'Will attempt delivery unless your birds think they're in a Hitchcock film.'

The consensus seems to be that while curlews are generally placid, they can become quite formidable when defending their young, making magpies seem friendly by comparison.

Another commenter pointed out that bush stone curlews can be 'scary AF' if you're not aware that they're unlikely to attack unless their eggs or chicks are directly threatened.

Adding to the curlews' impressive resume, a Queenslander noted that these birds are fascinating to observe and serve as natural pest controllers, adept at taking down snakes and toads.


They recounted witnessing a flock of curlews dispatching a coastal taipan on a golf course in Far North Queensland.

This incident highlights the sometimes unpredictable nature of parcel delivery in Australia, where wildlife encounters can be as much a part of the job as navigating traffic and weather.

It's a reminder that our postal workers often go above and beyond in their duties, sometimes facing uniquely Australian challenges.

So, next time you find a 'delivery attempted' note in your mailbox, spare a thought for the delivery person who might have just had a close encounter with the bird kind.

In other news, an Australia Post customer captured a postie skipping an express parcel delivery on video.

In Auchenflower, Brisbane, the driver snapped a photo of the letterbox instead of delivering the package. You can read more about it here.
Have you ever had a delivery delayed due to unexpected wildlife encounters in your area? What’s your most unusual or amusing experience with Australia’s native animals? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.