The 9 Most Dangerous Birds In North America

Barred Owl

Barred owls live in forests and swamps in the eastern half of the United States. When they are in the woods of Florida and Georgia, barred owl pairs often hoot at each other.

Herring Gull

For more than one reason, herring gulls are one of the most dangerous birds in North America. They are brave and have sharp beaks, which could make them dangerous to both animals and people.

Herring Gull (cont.)

This bird has a very sharp beak that could cut someone if they try to take a sandwich or other food item from it. They try to take food from both people and other birds.

Swan

A swan probably doesn't make you think of the word "dangerous" right away. People know these birds for their beautiful white feathers and the way they move. But swans can be dangerous if they feel like they are in danger.

Harris's Hawk

Harris's hawk can fly quickly and easily, like most hawks. Even though it's not as big as most hawks, its claws are very strong, so it can catch small animals and birds. Harris's hawk is different from other birds of prey in a few ways, though.

Snowy Owl

The snowy owl is known for having white feathers with lots of small dark spots on them. Its white feathers help it fit in with the snow in the Arctic tundra, where it lives. The main food these birds of prey eat is lemmings.

Great Northern Loon

A loon might be one of the most dangerous birds in North America, which might come as a surprise. Aren't they just as safe as ducks, after all? But even though the great northern loon looks like a duck, it can be very dangerous.

Red-shouldered Hawk

The red-shouldered hawk is not afraid of people like many other birds are. It will attack you if you get too close to its nest, just like the red-tailed hawk. People in a Connecticut town have even said that this bird scared them.

Ruffed Grouse

People often mistake the ruffed grouse for a pheasant because it is one of the most famous game birds. But in the 18th and 19th centuries, this bird was said to have poisoned many people and even killed a few.