Aggressive Duck Sends Florida Man to Hospital, Town Alarmed
In a bizarre and frightening incident, a Muscovy duck has caused chaos in a Cape Coral neighborhood, leaving multiple residents injured and one man hospitalized. The invasive species, known for its aggressive behavior, has sent shockwaves through the community, with many residents now too afraid to step outside their homes.
The saga began earlier this week when a 41-year-old man, who wishes to remain anonymous, was attacked by the duck while walking his dog in the neighborhood. The man suffered severe lacerations and puncture wounds, requiring emergency surgery and a several-day hospital stay.
“I was just walking my dog, and this thing comes out of nowhere, pecking and flapping its wings,” the man told local authorities. “I didn’t stand a chance. I thought it was going to kill me.”
The incident has left the neighborhood in a state of panic, with many residents reporting their own encounters with the aggressive duck. One resident, who wished to remain anonymous, described the experience as “traumatic.”
“I was out in my backyard when I saw the duck charging towards me,” the resident said. “I was terrified. I didn’t know what to do. It was like something out of a horror movie.”
Wildlife officials have since been monitoring the situation, urging residents to exercise caution when interacting with the duck. “Muscovy ducks are known for their aggressive behavior, especially when they feel threatened or territorial,” said Captain Jeff Thompson of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. “We’re working to safely capture and relocate the bird, but in the meantime, we urge residents to keep their distance and not approach the duck.”
The incident has also sparked calls for the duck’s humane removal under Florida wildlife regulations. “This is a clear example of why we need stricter regulations on invasive species,” said local councilwoman, Kathy Ortiz. “We can’t have animals running amok in our neighborhoods, putting our residents’ safety at risk.”
Muscovy ducks, native to South America, were first introduced to Florida in the 1950s as a food source. However, they quickly established themselves as an invasive species, outcompeting native bird species for resources and habitat. Today, they can be found throughout the state, particularly in urban areas where their aggressive behavior is often met with fear and hostility.
Despite efforts to control their population, Muscovy ducks continue to thrive in Florida, causing problems for residents and wildlife alike. In recent years, there have been numerous reports of duck attacks on humans, with some cases resulting in serious injuries.
In the wake of this latest incident, residents are left wondering how to coexist with the aggressive ducks. “I love animals, but this thing is a menace,” said one resident. “I just want to feel safe in my own neighborhood again.”
As wildlife officials work to capture and relocate the aggressive duck, residents are left to navigate the treacherous landscape, carefully avoiding the bird’s wrath. It’s a daunting task, but one that’s necessary to ensure the safety and well-being of the community.
