Government of Alberta/Gordon Court
The Town of Claresholm is cautioning residents to steer clear of a section of 52nd Avenue East, where a protective hawk has reportedly been dive-bombing passersby to defend her nest and chicks.
According to a Facebook post from the Town, Alberta Fish and Wildlife has received reports of these incidents occurring on 52nd Avenue East between 2nd and 3rd Street.
This behaviour is common among hawks during nesting season, and the Town's post notes that similar incidents have been reported in the same area in previous years.
Officials are advising people to avoid the area and have provided some tips to reduce the likelihood of an encounter.
“Hawks will usually surprise you from behind, so you may not see them coming,” the post reads. “An umbrella could help provide some protection.”
Those who must pass through the area are advised to avoid doing so in the early morning or late evening, when hawks tend to be most aggressive.
The Town estimates the hawk’s behaviour should return to normal in about a week, once the chicks have developed and become more independent.