Breeding season: Buzzards terrorizing joggers, cyclists in the Netherlands

Joggers, hikers, and cyclists must be extra alert this coming period. It’s breeding season for buzzards, and they don’t like intruders in their territory. Buzzard encounters occur every year, to the point that the Dutch have started speaking of “terror buzzards.”

“Extra caution is advised in the coming weeks and months, especially on dike roads with large poplars,” forest ranger Paul Begijn told Omroep Zeeland. Buzzards tend to build their nests high in these trees. The birds of prey will protect their young, even from unsuspecting joggers. “We see it every year during the breeding season.”

Begijn understands why people are afraid of being attacked by a “terror buzzard.” It can be very scary if such a bird of prey swoops down on you in a mock attack. Occasionally, they actually attack a passerby. “They can inflict significant injuries with their talons.”

He thinks the colloquial term “terror buzzard” is not unjustified, but stressed that it is not the bird’s fault. “People often point a finger at birds or other animals, while we are the guests in their habitats,” the ranger said. “It is purely a form of self-defense to say, ’Don’t come too close.’ We would do the same if someone got too close to our children. And that is simply what animals do.”

Begijn has several tips to avoid an attack. “What buzzards absolutely do not like is eye contact. That actually applies to most predators on the planet.” That is why buzzards typically attack from behind. “Always try to make eye contact when you hear it approach. Stay calm and stop running or cycling, because running away triggers it.” Some form of head protection is also a good idea, like a cap for joggers or a helmet for cyclists.

Anyone who has a bad experience with a buzzard should report it to the local authority, such as the municipality or water board, so that a warning sign can be placed.