A dramatic incident unfolded in Swain County, North Carolina, when a bald eagle dropped a cat that crashed through a driver’s windshield. This unusual event occurred on U.S. Route 74 around 8:15 a.m. on a Wednesday, according to the North Carolina Highway Patrol.
Bald Eagle Incident Details
The driver, who remained unharmed, reported the incident during a 911 call. In her conversation with the dispatcher, she stated, “OK, you may not believe me, but I just had a bald eagle drop a cat through my windshield. It absolutely shattered my windshield.” The emergency call was later obtained by WLOS-TV.
Eyewitness Account
As the shocking event unfolded, a witness observed the situation and remarked, “That is the craziest thing I’ve ever seen.” This confirmation from an eyewitness adds to the incredibility of the incident.
Impact of the Incident
Officials have shared a photo illustrating the damage done to the car’s windshield, which displayed a significant hole. Unfortunately, the cat did not survive the fall.
Bald Eagle Facts
Bald eagles, known for their impressive size, can reach heights of up to 3 feet and have wingspans that can exceed 8 feet. Their weight typically ranges between 8 to 14 pounds. While they primarily hunt small to medium-sized prey, they can carry objects weighing between 3 to 5 pounds.
- Bald Eagle Height: Up to 3 feet
- Wingspan: More than 8 feet
- Weight Range: 8 to 14 pounds
- Common Prey Weight: 3 to 5 pounds
Domestic cats, on the other hand, are about 2 feet long and weigh between 5 to 20 pounds. Although bald eagles can occasionally lift smaller cats, these animals are not among their regular prey.
Previous Incidents
This incident is reminiscent of a similar occurrence in 2019, where a large catfish crashed through a woman’s windshield in North Carolina after being dropped by a bird.
The strange reality of a bald eagle dropping a cat through a windshield highlights the unpredictable interactions between wildlife and human environments.
