Golden eagle attacks police officer at World Nomad Games in Kyrgyzstan

A golden eagle attacked a police officer during the World Nomad Games in Kyrchyn Valley, Kyrgyzstan, according to a video widely shared on digital platforms and reported by local media.

The bird of prey suddenly swooped down on the officer, who was maintaining public order, and its talons gripped the officer’s protective vest, tearing the reflective panel on his back.

A berkutchi, or eagle handler, quickly intervened and managed to calm the eagle, preventing the situation from escalating and sparing the officer from serious injury.

The World Nomad Games were held in Kyrgyzstan from August 31 to September 6, bringing together thousands of participants from over 100 countries in Kyrchyn Valley, a traditional venue for the sporting and cultural event.

The golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) is a distinctive bird of prey, measuring 75 to 88 cm in length, weighing between 3 and 7 kg, and boasting a wingspan of 190 to 225 cm. In the wild, it typically lives around 25 years, but can reach up to 32 years of age.

The eagle is characterized by dark brown plumage with a striking golden sheen on its head and neck, a curved dark beak, and powerful talons that can reach up to 3 inches.

It is found across North America, Europe, Asia, and North Africa, favoring open and semi-open habitats.

The golden eagle can reach speeds of up to 240 km/h, has a hunting success rate of 20 percent, and preys on rabbits, reptiles, foxes, deer, and livestock, but will also scavenge when food is scarce.

It builds large nests in rock crevices or trees, with females laying one to three white eggs marked with dark red spots.

The golden eagle holds significant cultural value, serving as a national symbol for Mexico and the United States, and is regarded as a legendary emblem of strength and courage.