In an unusual incident this week, emergency services responded to reports of an unconscious man in Aylestone Meadows, Leicester, with a hawk attached to him on a lead. Fearing the man was in cardiac arrest, officers from the firearms and dogs unit quickly arrived at the scene, along with the East Midlands Ambulance Service (EMAS).

Upon arrival, it was discovered that the man was a passionate falconer, often seen in the area with his hawk. He had collapsed due to a medical condition, requiring immediate attention. However, before paramedics could assist, the hawk needed to be secured.

PC Will Adams, an experienced dog handler, took the lead in handling the situation. Using a method of entry (MOE) glove to protect his arm, he was able to coax the hawk onto his arm, ensuring it was safely restrained. This allowed the ambulance team to attend to the man without any concerns for their safety.

The patient’s wife soon arrived at the scene but was not confident in handling the hawk. PC Adams graciously walked her home, the bird perched calmly on his arm, ensuring it was safely cared for while its owner was treated.

Thanks to the swift actions of the emergency teams, the man has since made a full recovery. The hawk was unharmed and safely returned to the care of its owner.