Harris Hawk Responsible for Over 20 Attacks in Two Weeks, Leaving Victims with Bloody Injuries

A Harris hawk has been causing chaos in the village of Flamstead, Hertfordshire, where it has been attacking the heads of tall men. Over the past fortnight, the bird, native to South America but sometimes kept in the UK, has been responsible for around 20 incidents, each one leaving its victims with injuries.

The hawk’s unusual behaviour has left residents and professionals alike puzzled. On one occasion, 68-year-old Roy Lambden was struck while walking, only realising he had been hit by a bird when he noticed it flying away. “I felt a whack on my head and saw blood,” Lambden recounted. “It was one of the first attacks, and since then, 20 others I know have been attacked. My bald friend now has two scars from it.”

The hawk has become a local nuisance, with the local zoo in Whipsnade confirming that the bird is not one of theirs. As the hawk’s whereabouts remain unknown, residents are left wondering where it has come from. One local, Paul Boys, 64, has resorted to wearing a hat to protect himself, after being attacked while gardening.

Neighbouring police have stated that the bird appears to favour taller individuals, with most reports coming from men aged between 40 and 60. The situation has prompted local authorities to seek advice from organisations like the RSPB and the British Bird Council, as the bird’s unpredictable behaviour continues to cause concern.

While the Harris hawk is highly intelligent and used in falconry to clear pigeons from public spaces, such as at Wimbledon, its recent attacks on humans are unusual. It is advised that residents do not feed the bird, as it may perceive people as threats.