While you might notice a variety of harmless birds flying over your head in the UK, there are some that Brits should avoid.
As lots of birds live or migrate across the UK, you might find yourself looking at one of the country’s most deadly.
The team at FeatherSnap have put together a list of some of the deadliest birds that people should be aware of in the UK.
The UK’s deadliest birds Brits should be aware of
FeatherSnap has listed six of the UK’s deadliest birds that you’ll need to avoid when out and about.
Southern Cassowary
The Southern Cassowary is a flightless bird but it’s regarded as one of the most dangerous birds in the world due to its characteristics and size.
The bird is known for its sharp claws, with each claw spanning a size of 12cm - about the same size as a CD. These claws can be used in attacks with great force, causing cuts and slashes.
While it's rare for someone to be killed by one of these birds, a man died in Florida in 2019 after being attacked by a Southern Cassowary.
These birds are shy and avoid humans but they can exhibit aggressive behaviour if they feel they are being threatened or if they think they need to protect their young or food.
FeatherSnap says it is best to avoid these birds at all costs because any movement could trigger a fight response.
Peregrine Falcon
This species of bird is generally known to be dangerous and it’s considered to be one of the most fearsome predators of all bird species.
They mainly pose a threat due to their speed and defensive behaviour. They have sharp talons and strong hooked beaks that are designed to capture and kill prey.
While attacks on humans are rare, if the bird feels as if its nest is in danger, they may use their talons defensively. Their talons are capable of causing deep cuts and puncture wounds.
The birds are increasingly found in urban areas (usually on tall structures) so if you do come across one, it is best to let it be.
They may also attack small pets that stray on the bird’s territory.
Gulls (seagulls)
Surprisingly, gulls (more commonly known as seagulls) can be dangerous and deadly in certain situations due to their aggressive behaviour.
In urban areas, you might have noticed that gulls have become accustomed to humans and will try to steal food, especially at beaches or parks.
They can exhibit food aggression and snatch things from people's hands with their sharp beaks causing grazes and minor cuts - which cause serious issues if not treated properly.
Seagulls are carriers of campylobacter which is an antibiotic-resistant bacteria that causes stomach flu (gastroenteritis).
Therefore, it is best to avoid these birds, especially during nesting season.
Golden Eagle
Most of the UK’s Golden Eagles live in the Scottish Highlands. They are majestic birds of prey and can be potentially dangerous due to their size and strength.
Similar to the peregrine falcon, golden eagles have sharp talons and exhibit territorial behaviour.
The golden eagle is among the largest birds, with a wingspan of up to 2.3 meters - 7’6” and a weight range between four to seven kilograms.
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The golden eagle is known for its speed, reaching up to 150 mph, and this combined with their powerful dive attacks could cause serious injury.
There have been previous incidents, typically involving children which are usually mistaken for smaller prey, FeatherSnap explains.
Common Buzzard
Common Buzzards are typically found in woodlands, farmlands, and moorlands but can be seen in urban areas if there are large parks or green spaces.
They are widespread across the UK and are very territorial. They can become aggressive if they are protecting a food source and act defensively if they think a human or animal is getting too close to their food.
Common Buzzards are more widespread and as their population is increasing, interactions with humans may increase so it’s best to stay alert, especially in green areas.
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Northern Goshawk
Similar to a Golden Eagle, the Northern Goshawk is a bird of prey and can become aggressive if a human gets too close to their nest.
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Typically, their attacks consist of dive bombs and flying at high speeds (up to 40 mph) near humans or intruders to try and intimidate them.
The Goshawk has a curved beak which is used to hunt and kill prey such as rabbits, squirrels, and even other types of birds.
These can cause serious cuts and wounds, especially if they are attacking at a high speed.
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