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What seemed like a peaceful afternoon for the residents of Cape Coral, Florida, turned into a scene worthy of an absurd comedy or a neighborhood alert, when a duck attacked several inhabitants, leaving one person injured and requiring medical attention.
The cause of the chaos is a Muscovy duck, a species that, while not native to the United States, has proliferated in various areas of the state. According to the Fish and Wildlife Service, these animals are not only invasive but can also be aggressive, damage property, and transmit diseases.
One of the affected individuals was James Sepúlveda, who has lived in the neighborhood since 1998. He told local media that, while enjoying the sunset on his porch, he suddenly felt a sharp sting in his hand. The assailant was neither a dog nor a raccoon, but rather a duck.
“I had my eyes closed, and suddenly I felt a sting in my hand… and I was bleeding”, Sepúlveda recounted while showing his wound to the cameras of WFTX. The bite was so severe that he had to receive medical attention.
Another neighbor, Richard Guy, also fell victim to the territorial duck. “I got up and made some noise, thinking that would scare it away. But the next thing I knew was that it spread its wings as if it was going to attack me,” he recounted in surprise.
An out-of-control species
The Muscovy ducks have proliferated in urban areas of Florida, including Orlando, where one of the largest populations exists. Environmental authorities have already issued control orders allowing for the removal or humane killing of these animals, as well as intervening in their nests and eggs when they are outside their natural habitat.
"They are harming people. They should get rid of them," claimed Sepúlveda, who is still recovering from the shock… and the bite.
The case has caused a stir on social media, where reactions range from humorous memes to complaints directed at the authorities. For many, what started as a funny anecdote has now turned into a real threat to the community’s peace.
In a state accustomed to coexisting with alligators and raccoons, few expected that the new "public enemy number one" would be a bad-tempered duck.
However, more than 200 kilometers to the east, Miami is facing its own poultry chaos, but in the form of roosters, hens, and wild chicks roaming freely through neighborhoods like Little Havana, Wynwood, and downtown.
This peculiar scene, inherited from a tradition among Latin American migrants, especially Cubans, of raising poultry in backyards, has evolved into an urban phenomenon where birds have taken over gardens, sidewalks, and even public facilities.
Some neighbors consider them part of the landscape and a symbol of cultural identity. Indeed, since 2002, colorful roosters have adorned Calle Ocho as icons of Cuban heritage in Miami. However, other residents express concerns about the noise, dirt, and potential health issues.
"The crowing of roosters at five in the morning can be picturesque... or a nightmare, depending on who you ask," says a resident of Wynwood with a laugh.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Muscovy Duck in Florida
Why are Muscovy ducks dangerous in Florida?
The Muscovy ducks are considered invasive in Florida and can be aggressive, causing property damage and transmitting diseases. Their proliferation in urban areas has led to incidents such as attacks on residents in Cape Coral.
What measures are being taken to control the population of Muscovy ducks?
The environmental authorities have issued control orders that allow for the humane removal or euthanasia of these animals, as well as intervention in their nests and eggs when they are outside of their natural habitat.
How did the community react to the duck attack in Cape Coral?
The attack of the Moscow duck caused a stir on social media, generating everything from humorous memes to calls for attention to the authorities. For many, the situation has shifted from being a funny anecdote to a real threat for the community.
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