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Hawk That Terrorized Flamstead Captured and Rehomed

A rogue Harris's hawk, responsible for weeks of attacks on villagers, was safely trapped by a local resident and has been relocated for retraining.

Local resident Vanessa Mariani and her 4-month-old baby Suki wear helmets while shopping, as protection from the hawk.
Flamstead local Paul Cain shows a bloodied scar above his ear after being attacked by the hawk in March.
The hawk terrorized the village of Flamstead, Hertfordshire for weeks.
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Overview

  • Over 50 residents of Flamstead, Hertfordshire, were attacked by a rogue Harris's hawk during a four-week spree, causing fear and disruption in the community.
  • Steve Harris, a local resident, captured the hawk on April 3, 2025, using a cage in his garden after it followed him during a jog.
  • Experts attributed the hawk's aggressive behavior to hormonal changes during the breeding season, leading it to exhibit territorial and courtship-driven attacks.
  • The hawk was unharmed during the capture and has since been rehomed with a falconer for retraining to prevent future incidents.
  • The community has expressed relief and gratitude, with normal activities resuming after weeks of protective measures and disruptions.