Bird of terror? Aggressive crow attacks Portlanders

PORTLAND, Ore. - For the past two months people crossing the west end of the Morrison Street Bridge have been dodging a crow that's been protecting a nest.

From morning to night the bird swoops down from the sky, flying inches from the heads of unsuspecting bicyclists and pedestrians. Frequent travelers have taken to protecting themselves with umbrellas and hoods while keeping their eyes to the sky as they dash to the other side.

The attacks most likely stem from the bird's protective parental instinct. A crow family has made its nest in the trees next to the bridge. According to the Portland Audubon Society, crows are smart birds and great parents.

They will make a lot of noise and buzz people's heads to protect the kids, and the Audubon Society says the best thing to do is give the birds space and not pick up baby crows even if you see them on the ground. That's part of the bird’s learn-to-fly process. It doesn't mean they need help.

Click on the "Play Video" button above to watch the bird in action as people cross the bridge.