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Birding/Hawks
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Question
I have a very small dog who looks very similar to a rabbit. However, we live
close to a forest and the hawk tries to catch my dog periodically. Is there any
way I can safely rid myself of the hawk?
I have heard various versions of this question but I have yet to see any verified instance of a hawk actually taking a dog. Lots of anecdotal stories, but no real evidence. Hawks weigh ony 2-3 pounds and would have a hard time taking on a dog that weighs more than that as virtually all adult dogs do. Plus the dog has sharp teeth and a voice which rabbits do not have. So I doubt if your dog will be harmed. That said, there is no legal way to get rid of the hawk. It is protected by federal law and harassing it in any way is illegal. If you are concerned, you need to do something to protect your dog and not let him/her run around in the woods or any open area by itself.
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Answers by Expert:
Roger Lederer
Expertise
Any and all about WILD birds - the science of ornithology. Information about birdwatching, ecology, conservation, migration, behavior, banding, rehabilitation, feeding, songs, binoculars, identification, and careers in ornithology. No questions about pet or caged birds, please.
Experience
Have a PhD and over forty years as a professional ornithologist - research, teaching, author, speaker, webmaster of Ornithology.com . Have written thirty scientific papers, three bird field guides, a textbook in ecology and two recent books entitled "Amazing Birds" and "Birds of New England". Have traveled to over 90 countries watching birds.
Education/Credentials
PhD in Zoology/Ornithology; Emeritus Professor of Biological Sciences; former Dean of the College of Natural Sciences at California State University, Chico
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