6 birds that are more dangerous than they look

Time of India

29-06-2025

When we talk about dangerous animals, birds aren't usually part of the conversation. We think of them as harmless– chirping on rooftops, flying in flocks, or just minding their business on electric wires.
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But not all birds are so gentle. Some, when disturbed or threatened, can get surprisingly aggressive. And while they don't hunt humans or go looking for fights, they've proven they can cause real harm in the right (or wrong) conditions.
From powerful kicks to unexpected swoops, here are six bird species that wildlife experts say you definitely don't want to provoke.
Cassowary
The cassowary might look like a creature from a prehistoric world– with its deep blue skin, helmet-like head, and long legs– but it's very much alive, and known as one of the most dangerous birds on Earth.
It usually keeps to itself in the forest. But if someone gets too close, especially in places where it's used to being fed by humans, it can lash out. Its inner toe has a sharp claw, like a dagger, and it uses it to kick with serious force. Attacks are rare but have led to injuries and, in a few cases, even death, according to a Britannica report.
Ostrich
The world's biggest bird is no pushover. Ostriches are built for speed and can sprint at more than 70 km/h.
But if they feel cornered or threatened, they don't just run– they kick. And those kicks are no joke. Their strong legs can break bones, and in the wild, they've been seen defending themselves against lions. Most human injuries happen on farms or in captivity, often when the birds are startled or feel trapped.
Emu
Australia's other giant bird, the emu, isn't quite as flashy as the cassowary, but it's just as strong. With long legs and big, three-toed feet, it can deliver fast, powerful kicks if it feels threatened.
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Emus don't usually attack people– most cases happen when someone tries to pet or feed them. But like many wild animals, if they sense danger, they react fast.
Lammergeier (Bearded Vulture)
This bird doesn't attack people, but its feeding habits still make it one to watch out for. The lammergeier, or bearded vulture, feeds mostly on bone marrow. To get it, it flies high and drops large bones onto rocks to crack them open. This method is smart, but in remote, high-altitude regions, it can also be risky, especially for trekkers who might not realise what's flying overhead.
With a wingspan close to 3 metres, this bird is hard to miss.
Great Horned Owl
They're known for their deep hoots and piercing eyes, but great horned owls aren't just beautiful– they're also fiercely territorial during nesting season. There have been reports of runners, hikers, and photographers getting scratched or hit when they unknowingly come too close to a nest, as per online reports. The attacks are fast and silent, usually meant as warnings, but the claws can still leave a mark.
Barred Owl
Slightly smaller than the great horned owl, barred owls are just as protective when it comes to their nests. They've been known to swoop at people during breeding season, especially in quiet forested areas where someone might walk too close without realizing it.
The injuries are usually minor, but the suddenness of the attack often takes people by surprise. In some areas of Canada and the U.S., parks even issue warnings during nesting months.