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Lost Hawk Soars Through Town, Delighting Birders
27 Mar
Summary
- A six-year-old Harris hawk escaped its damaged aviary during high winds.
- The escaped bird was identified by local birders unfamiliar with the species.
- The hawk returned home after seven days, enticed by food and a familiar whistle.
A six-year-old Harris hawk, native to warmer climates, recently embarked on an unplanned adventure through Amherstburg after escaping its aviary. The bird, named Ruth, got loose in mid-March when high winds damaged her enclosure. Local birdwatchers were intrigued to spot the unusual raptor, initially mistaking it for an eagle.
Ruth's owner, Nicole Soucie of Kingsport Environmental Falconry Services, explained that escaped birds often return due to the allure of readily available food. Ruth was absent for seven days before being located.
Soucie successfully reunited with Ruth by offering food and using a familiar whistle, leading the hawk back to her glove. While Ruth possesses hunting skills, Soucie expressed concern about potential dangers in the wild, as the food chain applies universally. Kingsport Environmental Falconry Services uses trained raptors for educational programs and pest control at various sites.
Soucie, who has worked with birds since childhood, mentioned that previous escapes have resulted in the birds' safe return. The longest period a bird had been missing before was two weeks.
