Can hawks, owls or other Georgia birds lift & carry away small dogs? Here’s what to know

Caption

Georgia is home to several species of birds of prey.

Credit: Photo by CO SCH

It may seem far-fetched to believe your pet could be carried off by a larger bird, but it can and does happen. In fact, Georgia is home to the main culprits when it comes to pet abduction.

Several species of hawks, owls and eagles are common to the area and can carry up to a half to two-thirds of their body weight. This means pets smaller than 12 pounds are in the most danger.

Although most pets are too large for the birds to actually carry off, it doesn’t stop them from trying. Ornithologists say “the threat is real but highly unlikely, and there are precautions pet parents can take to limit the risk.”

How can I protect my pet?

The Audubon Center for Birds of Prey suggests your very presence should be enough to ward off an attack, so leaving small pets unsupervised can be risky.

However, if your pet loves to be outside more than you do, there are a few things you can do:

• Create protected outdoor areas — use netting or install covered enclosures.
• Prune tree branches near your pet’s favorite areas — this discourages birds from perching nearby.
• Don’t leave pet food outside and remove bird feeders.
• Clear yard of debris to discourage other critters from congregating — if the bird can’t get to that mouse, it might just go for your pet.
• Consider a “raptor shield” or spiked vest for your pet.
• Beware of nesting season, which in Georgia, depending on the bird, can run from early spring through August.

What should I do if my pet is being attacked?

• Intervene immediately — clap your hands, shout, make loud noises, wave your arms.

• If you are able, pick up your pet and hold it close to you — your presence as a larger animal will deter the bird from attacking further.

• Seek shelter.

• Check for injuries and contact a veterinarian — even if there are no visible wounds, birds’ sharp talons can cause internal injuries or infections.

• Report the incident — call local animal control at (706) 225-4512 or contact the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.

My kitten was carried off by an owl in my yard and I’m curious to know if you had a pet attacked or lifted by a bird of prey? Sound off in the comments, or you can email me and find me on Instagram.

This story comes to GPB through a reporting partnership with the Ledger-Enquirer.