A sequence of latest eagle assaults has left Alaskans confused as to why the majestic birds are going after individuals.
In Kodiak, Alaska, eagles have struck at the least three locals who then required stitches, in accordance with a Fb publish shared by officers with the Metropolis of Kodiak Port & Harbors Division.
The incidents passed off at St. Herman’s Boat Harbor, also called Canine Bay.
BALD EAGLE SWIPES LUNCH TO GO AS CONNECTICUT NATURE PHOTOGRAPHER SNAPS PICTURE: ‘AMERICA’S BIRD LIKES PIZZA’
David Johnson, harbormaster and port director, advised Fox Information Digital that it isn’t but identified why the eagles are attacking, however there’s a giant nest with at the least one chick close by.
St. Herman’s dock is positioned in Kodiak, Alaska and has 27,000 sq. ft. monolithic concrete floating docks. (Silver Prout)
“We’re advising harbor customers within the space to train warning, and keep away from the realm if potential. Our harbor employees have taken to holding one thing above their heads after they’re close to the nest,” Johnson mentioned.
“The eagles are nonetheless behaving aggressively, however with the elevated consciousness, it appears the variety of profitable assaults has decreased from final week. I don’t know what has these specific freedom chickens so upset, however hopefully they recover from it quickly,” Johnson added.
For extra Way of life articles, go to www.foxnews.com/life-style.
David Johnson, Harbormaster and Port Director, advised Fox Information Digital they don’t know why the eagles are attacking, however they do know there’s a giant nest with at the least one chick close by. (Silver Prout)
Longtime Kodiak resident and Bering Sea crab fisherman, Captain Invoice Prout mentioned he was attacked by a bald eagle in August 2022 whereas strolling on the identical dock.
CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER
“I’ve walked these docks for over 40 years and by no means anticipated to be attacked by a Bald Eagle – an impressive image of our freedom,” Prout advised Fox Information Digital in an emailed assertion, including, “it felt like somebody took a 2×4 to the again of my neck.”
Prout mentioned he contemplated going to the emergency room, however his spouse got here to the rescue, wiping down his open wounds with antiseptic.
“The eagle inhabitants has elevated whereas their meals supply has decreased, which may result in us seeing extra assaults,” Prout mentioned.
Fox Information Digital reached out to the Alaska Division of Pure Assets and the Audubon Society for remark.
Captain Invoice Prout, a Kodiak resident, was attacked by a bald eagle in 2022 whereas strolling on the identical dock. (Silver Prout)
Steve Lewis, a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) biologist with a deal with eagles and raptors, advised native Alaska radio station KMXT that these assaults are thought of “unusual” for the Kodiak space.
“Lewis recommends anybody strolling within the space of St. Herman Harbor ought to maintain one thing above their heads to guard themselves, or proceed to look at the birds in order that they will not swoop down and assault different individuals,” the station reported.
Lewis advised KMXT that holding an umbrella or a hat above your head may assist shield you in opposition to accidents, since eagles are likely to assault “the best level of an individual that’s seen to them.”
Should you encounter an aggressive eagle in Kodiak, contact the Kodiak Nationwide Wildlife Refuge headquarters.
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
The bald eagle is the nationwide chook of the US.
The Bald and Golden Eagle Safety Act federally prohibits the hurt, possession or disturbance of bald and golden eagles, in accordance with the FWS.
