Red-winged blackbirds will attack people during the summer nesting season.
Period: June and July in Chicago
Motivation: protection of young in the nest
Nests are often located near water or marshy areas. Attacks typically occur in proximity to a nest.
Behavior: swooping attacks at the heads of pedestrians, bicyclists and joggers. They tend to attack from a blind side.
Wearing a hat is protective. Facing the bird may reduce attacks. The birds will usually attack an open umbrella rather than the person carrying it.
The psychological impact of an unexpected attack can be significant for some individuals.
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Specialty: Emergency Medicine
