Anchorage, KY — We have received reports from residents in Anchorage and Middletown regarding aggressive hawk behavior near bird feeders. Cooper’s Hawks and Red-tailed Hawks are active and may view small puppies, kittens, or toy-breed dogs as prey.

While hawk attacks on pets are relatively rare, they do happen, especially when natural prey (squirrels, chipmunks) is scarce or when young hawks are learning to hunt.

Identifying the Threat

• Red-tailed Hawk: Large, broad wings, reddish tail. They hunt from high perches and dive on prey in open fields or yards.
• Cooper’s Hawk: Smaller, agile, slate-gray back. They are bird hunters and often ambush prey near bird feeders. They are incredibly fast and maneuverable.

Why Your Yard?

Open, manicured lawns offer little cover for small animals. If you have bird feeders, you are attracting the hawk’s natural prey (birds and squirrels). A hawk hunting a squirrel at your feeder may opportunistically target a small dog that is nearby.

Safety Tips for Small Pets

1. Supervise: The most important rule. Do not let pets under 10 lbs out alone, even in a fenced yard. A hawk can swoop down and lift a small animal in seconds.
2. Remove Feeders: If you notice hawks loitering in your trees, take down your bird feeders for a few weeks. Dispersing the prey will disperse the predators.
3. Create Cover: Hawks need a clear path to dive. Provide cover for your pets, such as bushes, patio furniture, or a covered dog run.
4. Visual Deterrents: Shiny reflective tape, “scare-eye” balloons, or even an umbrella can deter hawks from landing in your yard.
5. Vest Protection: For very small dogs, there are “coyote vests” or “hawk vests” available with spikes or bristles that make it difficult for a raptor to grab the animal.

Legal Protection

It is important to remember that all hawks and owls are federally protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. It is illegal to kill, trap, or harm them. You cannot shoot a hawk, even if it is threatening your pet.

The only legal solution is deterrence and protection. If you have a persistent problem with a raptor nesting on your home or causing damage, contact us for legal management strategies.