UPDATE: A shocking incident unfolded along U.S. Route 74 in Swain County, North Carolina, when a driver was hit by a dead cat dropped from the talons of a Bald Eagle. The bizarre event occurred earlier today, leaving the driver stunned and covered in remains after the cat crashed through her windshield with a violent thud.
Witnesses report the incident took place near Bryson City as the eagle, possibly scavenging, lost its grip on the cat. The driver, who remains unnamed, immediately called emergency services, describing the scene as chaotic and surreal. “It felt like a bomb went off,” she recounted, detailing how the glass shattered and debris flew throughout her vehicle.
Wildlife officials, including Kendrick Weeks, supervisor for the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, provided insights into the eagle’s behavior. They suggest that Bald Eagles often scavenge for food, and the dropped cat may have been roadkill. “Eagles can carry prey that weighs up to one-third of their body weight,” Weeks explained, noting that eagles typically prefer not to hunt live animals.
The driver was fortunate to escape serious injury despite the alarming circumstances. Her immediate focus shifted to assessing the damage and understanding the extent of what had just occurred. The aftermath of this unusual event has sparked discussions about the interactions between wildlife and humans, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of nature itself.
Authorities are investigating the incident while the driver now has an extraordinary story to tell. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the sometimes surprising and dangerous encounters that can happen on the road.
As the situation develops, updates will follow on the eagle’s behavior and any potential wildlife safety measures that may be considered in the area. Stay tuned for the latest details as this peculiar story continues to unfold.
