Whoa! 6-foot eagle frightens English town

Police have urged residents to 'stay under cover' after a golden eagle escaped near the English town of Watford. The extremely large bird, which has an estimated wingspan of 6ft, made its bid for freedom from its owner in Rickmansworth last week.

Golden eagles use their agility and speed combined with their massively, powerful sharp talons to snatch up a variety of prey.

Cheryl O'Keeffe, administrator at RSPCA Middlesex North West, said, "Small animals, like rabbits and guinea pigs, are at risk. We advise pet owners to make sure their pets' hutches are secure; that there are no loose panels and that they haven't been digging beneath their runs."

Anyone who sees the bird, which can be identified by the leather tethers hanging from its feet, has been asked to immediately inform the Hertfo-rdshire police, the Metro reported.