Hawk terrorizes villagers after dive-bombing runner in Flamstead
- A rogue Harris hawk has attacked numerous villagers in Flamstead, Hertfordshire, with reports of 20 to 30 attacks.
- David Robinson, a recent victim, sustained injuries from a dive-bombing encounter while running.
- Residents are petitioning to save the hawk while authorities consider euthanasia as an option.
In Flamstead, Hertfordshire, a rogue Harris hawk has been creating chaos by attacking villagers, particularly targeting tall men, over the past month. David Robinson, a 45-year-old runner from Hemel Hempstead, became the latest victim when the hawk swooped down on him unexpectedly while he was distracted by his phone. Witnesses have reported numerous attacks, estimating between 20 to 30 incidents so far. Local residents have expressed their increasing frustration with the situation as the bird continues to dive-bomb innocent people. Authorities, including local falconers, have intervened but have yet to successfully capture the bird. Following a series of vicious assaults, the local parish council has suggested that euthanasia might be the only option left, raising significant concerns among community members. Observers note that the hawk, which is native to South America, is exhibiting unusual behavior for a wild animal and appears to have come from captivity. However, attempts to locate the bird’s origins have been unsuccessful, with the local zoo confirming that it is not one of theirs. Amid growing tensions regarding the hawk's fate, resident Rhonda Draper has launched a petition advocating for the bird's preservation. She argues that the hawk labeled as rogue deserves understanding rather than a death sentence. Draper emphasizes the importance of giving the hawk time to readjust to the wild, as it may be struggling to survive after escaping captivity. In her view, punishing the bird for its erratic behavior stemming from its previous captivity is inhumane. Draper is gathering community support, urging residents to allow a falconer time to capture the hawk and is advocating for wildlife experts to assess the situation to facilitate a safe reintegration. The case raises important ethical questions regarding human-wildlife interactions and the treatment of escaped captive animals, as the community remains divided over the appropriate course of action amidst ongoing attacks.