Berkhamsted seagull targets dog in string of “dive-bomb” attacks
MCHG 12- 939 Bridget Ruffell and her dog Bonnie watching out for seagulls in Butts Meadow, Berkhamsted.
A seagull has swooped down on a young dog in series of attempted “dive-bomb” attacks, her owner says.
Bridget Ruffell, 52, of Doctor’s Commons Road, Berkhamsted, first noticed the seagull’s aggression about 10 days ago.
She said: “It was circling us and started to fly lower. I was aware of it, but did not realise it was focusing on us.”
Since then the seagull has tried five times to attack her pet, Bonnie, who turns one on Thursday.
The bird patrols Butts Meadow, Berkhamsted, and only attacks when they enter the otherwise tranquil park.
The first time it became a major problem was after Bridget used a device that lets her throw balls a long way for Bonnie to fetch.
She said: “Then my dog was on her own in the middle of the park, and I suddenly became aware there was this seagull swooping.
“It swooped once and then it swooped lower and all of the people nearby said, ‘Is that seagull attacking your dog?’
“It really was dive-bombing towards her.”
Bridget thinks the attacks may be because the seagull mistakes Bonnie, who has white fur, for another seagull invading its territory.
Up to now Bridget has managed to scare the seagull away by shouting at it before it has been able to hurt Bonnie.
But she said: “There are schools nearby, with nurseries. What if it starts to swoop on children?”
> Has the seagull attacked you or your pet? Call the news room on 01442 898451.
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Weather for Hemel Hempstead
Tuesday 21 May 2013
Today
Cloudy
Temperature: 8 C to 16 C
Wind Speed: 15 mph
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