Why do birds attack humans?
Birds can attack humans for a variety of reasons. Some of the most common include:
Defending their nest or young
Birds can become very aggressive when defending their nest or young chicks. Many species see humans as a threat during breeding season and will attack unprovoked if they perceive you as getting too close.
Protecting food sources
Birds that frequent picnic areas, dumpsters, or bird feeders may attack to protect their food source from humans. Gulls and crows are particularly prone to this type of behavior.
Territoriality
Some birds are highly territorial and will attack any intruders. Hummingbirds, for example, are known to aggressively defend their feeding grounds.
Misdirected aggression
Sometimes birds mistakenly identify humans as a threat and attack. This often occurs during mating season when hormones run high.
Self-defense
Occasionally birds attack purely as self-defense if they feel cornered or threatened. Sudden movements near a bird can elicit an attack.
What types of birds commonly attack?
While any bird can attack, some species are more prone to aggression towards humans:
| Bird | Reason for Attacks |
|---|---|
| Geese | Highly territorial, especially during nesting season |
| Swans | Defend nests and young aggressively |
| Crows | Protect food sources and nests |
| Owls | Defend nests |
| Hummingbirds | Territorial, guard feeding areas |
| Seagulls | Food aggressive, especially around dumps |
| Robins | Nest and territory defense |
| Blue Jays | Territorial year-round |
| Mockingbirds | Protect nests and fledglings |
| Sparrows | Nesting defense |
How can I identify a bird that is about to attack?
Knowing the body language of an aggressive bird can help you avoid an attack. Here are signs a bird may be about to strike:
Crouched posture
The bird will lower its body close to the ground with wings extended outward to appear larger and more threatening.
Head bobbing
The bird rapidly bobs its head up and down. This serves as a warning signal before attack.
Raised feathers
The bird will ruffle and raise the feathers on its back and wings to again appear larger.
Loud vocalizations
Aggressive birds often make loud calls, squawks, or honking sounds to signal attack.
Beak clapping
Some birds like geese snap or clap their bills as a threat display.
Charging
The bird runs or flies directly at the perceived threat. This is a clear sign an attack is imminent.
How can I avoid being attacked?
Here are some tips to reduce your chances of a bird attack:
Be aware of nesting areas
Give nesting birds adequate space and avoid areas where you see nests or fledglings. Pay particular attention in spring and summer.
Don’t provoke or corner birds
Back away slowly if you encounter an agitated bird and avoid making sudden movements. Never purposefully threaten or chase birds.
Watch for body language
Look for signs of aggression like those described above. The sooner you spot a displeased bird, the more time you have to calmly leave the area.
Avoid food areas
Be extra cautious around dumps, outdoor restaurants, and anywhere birds are used to being fed by people.
Protect your head
If a bird is swooping in attack, duck your head and use your arms to block your face. Most birds aim for the head area.
Bring an umbrella
Opening an umbrella creates a barrier between you and an attacking bird. It prevents them from striking you from above.
Don’t provoke fledglings
Baby birds on the ground may look abandoned but the parents are likely nearby. Leave fledglings alone or you could be attacked by protective adults.
What should I do if a bird attacks me?
If a bird initiates an attack, here are some actions you can take:
| If the bird… | Do this… |
|---|---|
| Makes loud distress calls | Slowly back away and leave the area |
| Hovers overhead | Crouch down, cover your head, and move to shelter |
| Strikes from behind | Turn to face the bird – most won’t strike head on |
| Goes for your eyes | Wear sunglasses or eye protection if possible |
| Tries grasping you | Use a stick, hat, bag, or umbrella to block its talons |
| Attacks when you turn away | Back away slowly while continuing to face the bird |
Other tips:
- Avoid flailing your arms, run away, or make sudden movements – this may prolong the attack
- Fighting back will often intensify the attack – remain calm and use defensive maneuvers
- If knocked down, curl into a ball and protect your face and neck
- Report persistent attacking birds to authorities – they may remove problematic individuals
What do I do after a bird attack?
Once a bird attack ends, you should:
Get out of the area
Put as much distance between you and the aggressive bird as possible in case it returns.
Clean any wounds
Bird beaks and talons can cause punctures, scratches, and even lacerations. Clean with soap and water and apply antibiotic ointment.
Bandage injured areas
Cover any bleeding gashes with clean bandages or gauze to prevent infection.
Watch for signs of infection
Look for increasing redness, swelling, warmth, pus, and streaks around the wound. See a doctor if this occurs.
Take over-the-counter pain medication
Medicines like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help relieve pain from bruises, scrapes, and other minor injuries.
Get medical care for serious injuries
Seek emergency care if you have severe bleeding, facial injuries, or eye injuries. Larger birds can cause significant damage.
Report aggressive birds
Contact animal control or fish and wildlife officials to report birds exhibiting dangerous behavior towards people.
Limit outdoor time in the area
Avoid the location of the attack for a few weeks if possible to give aggressive birds space.
Can I legally harm a bird that attacks me?
In most cases, no. Here are some important legal considerations regarding defending yourself against a bird attack:
Federal law
Most bird species are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. You could face fines up to $15,000 and 6 months imprisonment for killing or injuring birds covered by this law.
State laws
Many states have additional laws prohibiting harming native bird species. However, introduced species like house sparrows and starlings are often unprotected.
Self-defense
In rare cases, killing a bird may legally be considered self-defense if it is actively endangering human life and no other alternative exists.
Deterrents
Using humane deterrents like water spray, noise makers, or umbrellas for protection does not violate any laws.
Nest destruction
Disturbing or destroying active nests and eggs is illegal under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
When in doubt, opt for non-lethal options
Unless there is an imminent threat to human safety, the best course of action is using non-harmful deterrents or waiting for the bird to leave the area.
How can I prevent future bird attacks?
To discourage bird attacks in the future:
Avoid nesting areas
Be aware of seasons when birds are most protective of nests and young.
Wear a hat or helmet
Headgear can protect against diving attacks. Wide-brimmed hats work best.
Carry an umbrella
Opening an umbrella when threatened creates an instant barrier above you.
Make noise
Yelling, clapping, using a whistle, or other sounds may scare aggressive birds away.
Travel with a companion
Birds are less likely to attack groups of people. There is safety in numbers.
Keep away from food sources
Don’t eat near dumpsters or outdoor cafes where birds beg and expect food.
Wave arms slowly
Gently waving your arms or a stick sometimes wards off circling birds. Avoid fast movements.
Carry a water gun or spray bottle
Squirting water can disrupt an attack and cause birds to flee. Just the sight of water may deter them.
Conclusion
While rare, aggressive bird attacks do occur and can be quite frightening. By learning warning signs of aggression, deterrent techniques, and defensive measures you can protect yourself and minimize harm. In most cases, attacks are just birds protecting territory or offspring and will subside once you leave the area. Stay calm, act with caution, and don’t illegally harm federally-protected birds even when attacked. With vigilance, common sense precautions, and proper response, people and birds can continue coexisting peacefully.
