Raptors! Who knew?

[sarafigal]

When I took Queequeg (BFA) to the vet on Monday, I asked for her thoughts on wing clipping, since the bird used to have it done regularly, and since we have a big fenced yard with two gentle dogs. I thought it would be nice to let Queequeg come out and play with us on nice days without her flying away. The vet said that she wouldn't advise that, because of the danger of raptors. I patiently repeated the part about having two dogs. She then patiently smiled and explained that a hawk wouldn't much care about the dogs, or about us being in the yard... Hmmm.

Jump to yesterday. For context: Queequeg sits in or on a cage by a window, and on the other side of the window are two budgies in a flight cage. So yesterday: When I walked into the house, my husband said, "you'll never believe what happened today. I walked into the living room and there was a huge hawk sitting on the budgie cage. When I walked over, it swooped over to the hammock and sat there."

So the vet was right, of course. The hawk spotted a lot of green and new birdie noises, and hoped for a meal. There will be no un-harnassed play time in my yard for Queequeg, that's for sure!

Have any of you had similar experiences?

 

[JerseyWendy]

We have a pair of Cooper's Hawks in the neighborhood. I love them to death, but take GREAT care when giving my fids outdoor playtime. I never move away from them further than an armslength, and also keep my eyes and ears open to the wild birds. I've learned that when there's a Cooper's Hawk nearby, the wild birds will go absolutely crazy before all taking cover. Good indicator for me to take my birds inside as I don't want to come face to face with one of those raptors.

Also, when they are outside, they are underneath our pergoal, which is covered by vine. It shelters them somewhat from direct sun, AND allows them to go a "little" undetected by birds of prey.

But again, I don't take any chances and don't leave their sight.

 

[henpecked]

Oh yes, neither you or the dogs could stop a hawk that wanted your bird. here in Fla i have lots (and lots) of hawks,owls and eagles. I don't let my pets get out of arms reach.Last fall when hunting, i had hawks picking up doves that i had just shot before i could reach them. The same is true with eagles picking up ducks before i could get to them. That's with me shooting a shotgun and within a few feet of the birds. Don't make the mistake ,thinking your too close for them to attack.