BRITAIN: A buzzard which attacked more than 20 cyclists on an English country road has died after it took on too large an opponent when it 'dive-bombed' a van.
The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds said the aggressive bird of prey was accidentally killed yesterday when it swooped on the vehicle near Holsworthy, Devon. Experts believe the buzzard had been protecting its nest when it inflicted cuts on cyclists' heads and gouged holes in their helmets. RSPB spokeswoman Ms Emma Parkin said it was unusual for buzzards to attack humans, which suggested it had once been in captivity. "It was just being a good parent, although it was probably rather too enthusiastic."
Retired toolmaker Paul Dixon (71) was not wearing a helmet when the angry bird swooped and left him with blood pouring from his head. 22 competitors in cycle races were also attacked at the same spot.