LAS CRUCES, N.M. — Hawks protecting their nest on New Mexico State University’s campus have been dive-bombing pedestrians — with one being struck so hard that the person suffered post-concussion symptoms that included dizziness and nausea.
According to the Las Cruces Sun-News, five people have visited the Campus Health Center in recent weeks for treatment of injuries suffered when they were struck by the diving hawks.
Dr. Benjamin Diven says most of the patients had cuts or abrasions on their heads.
The Swainson’s hawks are parents and they built their nest in a tree outside Rentfrow Gym.
Professor Martha Desmond of the Department of Fish, Wildlife and Conservation says the hawks consider pedestrians threats to the birds’ offspring.
The university has posted warning signs in the area.