PULLMAN, Wash — The Pullman Police Department (PPD) is reporting that hawks are showing aggressive behavior near the Pullman Regional Hospital. They have been seen swooping low towards people walking in the area.
According to the PPD, one person reported minor injuries from a hawk that clawed at their head. But their injuries did not require any medical attention.
According to Dr. Marcie Logsdon with the WSU College of Veterinary Medicine, the hawks are likely acting aggressively due to a nearby nest site.
If you come into contact with them, be sure to do the following:
- Avoid turning your back to the hawk
- Protect your head
- Leave the area
The PPD Code Enforcement and WSU Wildlife Veterinarians are working together to identify the species of the feathered assailants. But the department says they are likely a kettle of Swainson's Hawks who have migrated here for the season. If so, police said the U.S. Fish and Wildlife will handle them.
PPD says hawks are not typically a danger to humans. They are expected to begin their migration in the next few weeks.