Bald eagle attacks ruffle Alaskans in Kodiak

Aggressive bald eagles in Alaska have ruffled some feathers after attacking several people in recent weeks, prompting local officials to issue a warning.

At least three locals have been recently attacked by the national bird in Kodiak — located on an island of the same name in the Gulf of Alaska, according to officials with the City of Kodiak Port & Harbors Department.

The incidents at St. Herman’s Boat Harbor, also known as Dog Bay, left victims bleeding and needing stitches. 

It’s not clear why the majestic birds of prey are going after humans, but local officials have warned residents to be wary.

“We are advising harbor users in the area to exercise caution, and avoid the area if possible. Our harbor staff have taken to holding something above their heads when they’re near the nest,” David Johnson, harbormaster and port director, told Fox News.

“The eagles are still behaving aggressively, but with the increased awareness, it seems the number of successful attacks has decreased from last week,” he continued.

“I don’t know what has these particular freedom chickens so upset, but hopefully they get over it soon,” Johnson added.

The attacks are certainly “strange” for the Kodiak area, according to Steve Lewis, a US Fish and Wildlife [FWS] biologist who studies eagles and other raptors.

He told local outlet KMXT that people walking near the harbor should hold something over their heads to protect themselves since the bald eagles will typically go after “the highest point of a person that is visible to them.”

Crab boat captain and Kodiak local Bill Prout told Fox News he was attacked by a bald eagle on the same docks in August 2022.

He said it “felt like someone took a 2×4 to the back of my neck.”

“I’ve walked these docks for over 40 years and never expected to be attacked by a Bald Eagle – a majestic symbol of our freedom,” Prout said. 

Prout believes the attacks are a result of a decreasing food supply for the birds as their population increases.

Fully grown bald eagles measure 30 to 40 inches from head to tail, with a sprawling, 7-8 foot wingspan, and weigh between 8 to 14 pounds, according to FWS.

They mate for life, can live up to 30 years in the wild and primarily eat fish, but have been known to also eat on ducks, rodents, snakes and carrion.