Humans have long been fascinated with birds, particularly those willing to take an opportunity to eat them. While it may seem far-fetched that a bird would consume a human, a few species will do so when the opportunity arises. These birds are known as “human-eating” birds and have been reported to stalk, attack, and even consume humans.
So, which birds are known to eat humans? Here are the top seven birds most likely to eat humans when they get the chance.
1. Osprey
The Osprey (Pandion haliaetus) is a large, predatory bird in many parts of the world. It is easily recognized by its white head, dark wings, and yellow eyes. Ospreys typically feed on fish, but they have been known to attack and consume humans in some cases. Osprey attacked a woman in the United States while swimming in Alaska. The bird reportedly grabbed her by the arm and dragged her underwater, consuming her flesh.
2. Bald Eagle
The Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) is the national bird of the United States and a symbol of our country. It is a large, powerful bird with a white head and dark wings. Bald Eagles feed on fish and other small animals but have also been reported to attack humans. In one case, a Bald Eagle reportedly swooped down and grabbed a young girl in its talons before carrying her away. Her family rescued the girl, and the eagle was never seen again.
3. Great Horned Owl
The Great Horned Owl (Bubo virginianus) is one of the most iconic owls in North America. It is easily recognized by its large, yellow eyes and its distinctive “horns” on its head. Great Horned Owls are known to hunt small mammals, but they have also been known to attack humans. In one case, a Great Horned Owl reportedly swooped down and attempted to take a baby from a stroller. The parents rescued the baby, but the owl was not seen again.
4. Golden Eagle
The Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) is a large, powerful bird with a dark brown body and golden-brown wings. It is found in many parts of the world, including North America, Europe, and Asia. Golden Eagles typically feed on small mammals but have also been known to attack humans. In one case, a Golden Eagle reportedly swooped down and grabbed a small child in its talons before carrying it away. Fortunately, the child was rescued, and the eagle was never seen again.
5. California Condor
The California Condor (Gymnogyps californianus) is a large, vulture-like bird found in California and parts of Mexico. It is easily recognized by its black body, white head, and red wings. California Condors typically feed on carrion but have also been known to attack humans. In one case, a California Condor reportedly swooped down and grabbed a small child in its talons before carrying it away. Fortunately, the child was rescued, and the condor was never seen again.
6. Steller’s Sea Eagle
The Steller’s Sea Eagle (Haliaeetus pelagicus) is a large, powerful bird in Asia and Russia. It is easily recognized by its white head, dark wings, and yellow eyes. Steller’s Sea Eagles typically feed on fish but have also been known to attack humans. In one case, a Steller’s Sea Eagle reportedly swooped down and grabbed a small child in its talons before carrying it away. Fortunately, the child was rescued, and the eagle was never seen again.
7. Andean Condor
The Andean Condor (Vultur gryphus) is a large, vulture-like bird in South America. It is easily recognized by its black body, white head, and red wings. Andean Condors typically feed on carrion, but they have also been known to attack humans. In one case, an Andean Condor reportedly swooped down and grabbed a small child in its talons before carrying it away. Fortunately, the child was rescued, and the condor was never seen again.
These are the top seven birds most likely to eat humans when they get the chance. While it is unlikely that any of these birds will consume a human, it is important to be aware of their potential danger. If you encounter any of these birds, it is best to take caution and move away from the area.
