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“Don’t ever leave your child in the car.” This is a common phrase we not only hear but is genuine common sense! Children and babies are not able to adequately take care of themselves in the absence of an adult. Well, this is often the cause of young pets as well. Not only do they become susceptible to the harsh elements of nature, but they are also under threat of predators nearby. You’re not going to want to miss this close call in the video above.
Hawk Attack in Los Angeles
The YouTube video posted at the beginning of this blog post brings us to Los Angeles. Gabriel M1111 YouTube page was able to capture this amazing interaction on film and share it on his channel. This video was just released three weeks ago and it has already received close to three million views!
Scared Kitten Hides
As the video at the top starts out, Gabriel is sitting in the car with his kitten who is up on the dashboard. Off in the distance, we see a hawk that is perched on a concrete wall. He is intently looking at his surroundings. No doubt he is looking for food. After this incident was over, Gabriel was incorrectly informed this hawk was a pigeon hawk. However, upon further confirmation, he was able to identify it as a red-tailed hawk.
Suddenly, the hawk spots the kitten, and at one second, we see the hawk take off and smash right into the windshield. We would have to say this hawk’s face says it all. He had no idea there was a barrier between him and what he thought would be his next meal.
The Veterinary Centers of America shares, “When frightened, some cats may hide, try to appear smaller, pull their ears back and be immobile.” And that’s exactly what this kitten does. She quickly climbs down by the steering wheel and tries to hide from this predator who means her harm.
Do Hawks Eat Pets?
It’s easy to think that all birds eat are worms and seeds. But birds of prey are those who will eat other animals, which is what the red-tailed hawk is. According to the United States Department of Agriculture, “Hawks and owls can negatively impact a variety of human interests, including important natural resources, livestock and game bird production, human health and safety, and companion animals.”
Now, we realize it’s impossible to predict every situation that might happen. After all, this kitten’s owner probably didn’t even think a hawk would try to eat his pet on this day. But this goes to show the importance of being aware of your surroundings when your pets, especially young ones, are outside of the safety of your home. All it takes is one fell swoop for your beloved pet to be swept away.
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