An East County woman, Donna Spevack, fell victim to a hawk attack in her front yard, leaving her with painful puncture wounds. The incident, which occurred earlier this week, has raised concerns about wildlife encounters in residential areas. Here’s what happened and what experts advise.

The Attack and Aftermath

Donna Spevack was innocently gardening in her front yard when a hawk unexpectedly swooped down and attacked her from behind. Recounting the harrowing experience, Spevack described feeling the bird’s claws digging into her head, causing intense pain and leaving multiple puncture wounds. Despite rushing indoors for safety, the wounds required medical attention, including a CT scan and tetanus shot, but thankfully, no stitches were needed.

Fear and Caution

Spevack, who has always harbored a fear of birds, expressed heightened anxiety following the attack. She admitted to avoiding her garden since the incident, resorting to carrying an umbrella for protection. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife advised her that umbrellas could help deter hawks, offering a temporary solution to her ongoing apprehension.

Expert Advice and Precautions

According to state wildlife biologists, hawk attacks often occur during nesting seasons when birds become defensive. While it’s recommended for people to steer clear of nesting areas, individuals like Spevack, who reside in proximity to hawk nests, must exercise caution. Spevack now diligently scans her surroundings for any signs of the predatory birds, limiting her outdoor activities to minimize the risk of further encounters.

For those living in areas prone to wildlife interactions, experts recommend staying informed on coexisting measures. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife provides resources and guidance on safely navigating encounters with local wildlife.

Stay vigilant and download The Local News App for more updates on this developing story.

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