Hawk Injures Man In New Canaan: Animal Control

NEW CANAAN, CT — A man was recently injured by a hawk protecting its nest on a private property in New Canaan, according to an animal control officer.

In an email to Patch, Animal Control Officer Allyson Halm said the man received two cuts that caused bleeding as a result of the incident.

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According to Halm, the hawk was protecting its nest located high in a tree near a garden in the Lost District Drive area of town. Though she did not specify which day the incident occurred, Halm confirmed it was a recent morning.

She also noted the property's residents were aware of the hawk's nest in the tree but were taken by surprise when the bird behaved threateningly.

Halm said New Canaan Animal Control receives calls about hawks in town every spring during nesting time, however they are typically not dangerous. She noted this incident was the first report of an injury caused by a hawk in town that she could recall.

"It's important for residents to be mindful of all our local wildlife," Halm said in an email. "Hawks tend to build nests in tall trees, less likely downtown. Hawk activity is obvious if you are aware of your surroundings."

Halm emphasized hawks are a protected species and there are humane ways to deter aggressive behavior by them.