While you might notice a variety of harmless birds flying over your head in the UK, there are some that Brits should avoid.

As lots of birds live or migrate across the UK, you might find yourself looking at one of the country’s most dangerous.

The team at FeatherSnap have put together a list of some of the most dangerous birds that people should be aware of in the UK.

The UK’s dangerous birds Brits should be aware of

FeatherSnap has listed six of the UK’s most dangerous birds that you’ll need to avoid when out and about.

Southern Cassowary

Native to Australia, there are only a small number of Southern Cassowary birds in captivity in the UK.

In fact, a Cassowary chick which was recently born at a Gloucestershire bird park became the first born in the UK since 2021.

Meanwhile, it was the fourth chick to have hatched in Europe this year, according to the BBC.

The Cassowary is considered one of the most dangerous birds in the world as a result of its characteristics and size.

It is known for its sharp claws, with each claw spanning a size of 12cm which is about the same size as a CD.

These claws can be used in attacks with great force, causing cuts and slashes.

It's important to note that fatalities are extremely rare, and that these birds are shy and will avoid humans.

However, these birds can exhibit aggressive behaviour if they feel they are being threatened or if they feel as if they need to protect their young or food.

There have been documented cases of people being killed by Cassowaries but there is no record of the birds killing anyone in the UK.

One of the more recent cases took place in 2019, when a man from Florida died after being attacked by his pet Cassowary.

Peregrine Falcon

This species of bird is generally known to be dangerous, and it is considered one of the most fearsome predators of all bird species.

Attacks on humans are extremely rare and there are no reports of any fatalities caused by the species.

Peregrine Falcons are considered to be one of the most fearsome predators of all bird species.Peregrine Falcons are considered to be one of the most fearsome predators of all bird species. (Image: Getty) Instead, they mainly pose a threat due to their speed and defensive behaviour and tend to attack when hunting other animals or when protecting their nests.

The Peregrine Falcon has sharp talons and strong hooked beaks that are designed to capture and kill prey.

They are capable of causing deep cuts and puncture wounds. 

The birds are increasingly found in urban areas, usually on tall structures, so if you do come across one, it is best to let it be.

If the bird feels as if its nest is in danger, the Falcon may use their talons defensively. They may also attack small pets that stray on the bird’s territory.

This species of bird is generally known to be dangerous and it’s considered to be one of the most fearsome predators of all bird species.

They mainly pose a threat due to their speed and defensive behaviour. They have sharp talons and strong hooked beaks that are designed to capture and kill prey.

Gulls (seagulls)

Surprisingly, gulls (more commonly known as seagulls) can be dangerous in certain situations due to their aggressive behaviour.

In urban areas, you might have noticed that gulls have become accustomed to humans and will try to steal food, especially at beaches or parks.

Seagulls are more harmful than you might thinkSeagulls are more harmful than you might think (Image: Getty) They can exhibit food aggression and snatch things from people's hands with their sharp beaks causing grazes and minor cuts - which cause serious issues if not treated properly.

Seagulls are carriers of campylobacter which is an antibiotic-resistant bacteria that causes stomach flu (gastroenteritis).

Therefore, it is best to avoid these birds, especially during nesting season. 

Golden Eagle

Most of the UK’s Golden Eagles live in the Scottish Highlands. They are majestic birds of prey and can be potentially dangerous due to their size and strength.

Similar to the peregrine falcon, golden eagles have sharp talons and exhibit territorial behaviour. 

The golden eagle is among the largest birds, with a wingspan of up to 2.3 meters - 7’6” and a weight range between four to seven kilograms.

@potters_worldzoo Reply to @user30832019801233 John, our Falconer back with more Sam, the Golden Eagle facts! 🦅#pottersworld #birdsoftiktok #birdsofprey #zoo #fypシ ♬ Paper Birds (3 min) - Jordan Halpern Schwartz

The golden eagle is known for its speed, reaching up to 150 mph, and this combined with their powerful dive attacks could cause serious injury. 

There have been previous incidents, typically involving children which are usually mistaken for smaller prey, FeatherSnap explains.

Common Buzzard

Common Buzzards are typically found in woodlands, farmlands, and moorlands but can be seen in urban areas if there are large parks or green spaces.

They are widespread across the UK and are very territorial. They can become aggressive if they are protecting a food source and act defensively if they think a human or animal is getting too close to their food.

Common Buzzards are typically found in woodlands, farmlands, and moorlandsCommon Buzzards are typically found in woodlands, farmlands, and moorlands (Image: Getty) Common Buzzards are more widespread and as their population is increasing, interactions with humans may increase so it’s best to stay alert, especially in green areas.

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Northern Goshawk

Similar to a Golden Eagle, the Northern Goshawk is a bird of prey and can become aggressive if a human gets too close to their nest. 

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Typically, their attacks consist of dive bombs and flying at high speeds (up to 40 mph) near humans or intruders to try and intimidate them.

The Goshawk has a curved beak which is used to hunt and kill prey such as rabbits, squirrels, and even other types of birds.

These can cause serious cuts and wounds, especially if they are attacking at a high speed.