Cyclists have been warned to look out for a buzzard which has been attacking cyclists on a Hambleton country lane.
The incidents have occurred near the villages of Thornton-le-Beans and Thonton-le-Moor, between Northallerton and Thirsk.
Local residents say a buzzard has been striking cyclists as they are riding in the area.
The latest incident occurred on Sunday morning.
One resident said they had contacted North Yorkshire County Council asking for permission to erect signs to warn passing cyclists.
Another said: “I think it goes for flashing red lights.
“It hasn’t got me ever as I have cycled there, but it has got a friend several times.”
Adult buzzards have a wing span of more than a metre and can weigh up to a kilogram.
They eat worms and grubs as well as rabbits and voles, and pick up carrion.
The RSPB says attacks on humans by buzzards are rare, although several joggers were injured after being attacked in Cornwall by buzzards in 2009.
One theory is that the birds of prey become territorial in July and August when their young are ready to leave their nests.
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