The peaceful, sun-drenched community of Cape Coral, Florida, has recently been thrust into an unexpected frenzy of feathers and fear. At the heart of the commotion is not a gator, not a hurricane, and not even the infamous antics of a “Florida Man” — but a surprisingly aggressive Muscovy Duck Attacks.
The residents, many of them elderly and retired, now find themselves cautiously glancing over their shoulders, bracing for the next unexpected flap of wings or a peck from the so-called “Florida Duck.” With one man already hospitalized and others reporting sneak attacks and territorial behavior, the duck’s presence has sparked anxiety, confusion, and even calls for wildlife intervention.
An Unexpected Muscovy Duck Attacks In Cape Coral
Cape Coral, known for its tranquil canals and retiree-friendly neighborhoods, is no stranger to wildlife. Sightings of iguanas, alligators, and exotic birds are part of everyday life. But none have incited fear quite like the lone Muscovy duck now patrolling the streets like an avian vigilante. This particular bird, described as belligerent and unusually bold, has taken up residence on one quiet street and decided to make its dominance known to humans.
James Sepulveda, a longtime resident of the area, found himself on the receiving end of the duck’s wrath. What began as a peaceful evening on his porch turned into a scene from a slapstick horror movie when the duck launched a surprise attack. “I sit on my porch, 7 to 7:30 at this time of the year to catch a sunset,” Sepulveda recounted.
“I had my eyes closed. All of a sudden, I felt a jab on my hand, and it was bleeding.” His hand, now bandaged, is a daily reminder that the tranquility of Cape Coral has been disrupted by a rogue bird with no fear and sharp talons.
Even more unsettling is the bird’s persistence. Far from being a one-time assailant, this Muscovy duck has taken to lurking outside Sepulveda’s door. “He’s waiting for me,” he said with a mix of disbelief and frustration, showing local reporters a video of the bird ominously pacing outside his home. It’s not just about a random attack anymore — it feels personal.
A Duck on the Offensive
Another victim, Richard Guy, recounted his own unnerving experience with the belligerent bird. Guy had initially believed that a little noise would scare off the duck. Instead, the confrontation escalated. “I stood up and I made some noises, thinking it would go away,” he told reporters.
“Next thing I know, its wings come out, you know, like it’s going to attack me.” The duck, apparently unimpressed with human attempts at intimidation, has made it clear that it considers this stretch of Florida its own territory — and trespassers, even the ones who pay taxes, will not be tolerated.
DUCK TALES! Jimmy has a new home! Rescue group from Ocala swoops in and saves the day removing male muscovy terrorizing Cape Coral neighborhood. #florida #capecoral #remarkablerescues #ducktales #update pic.twitter.com/PQVUGIRGQb
— Fox 4 News (@Fox4Now) May 29, 2025
Even Fox 4 News reporter Bella Line wasn’t spared. Sent to the scene to report on the strange events unfolding in this suburban paradise, Line herself was chased by the duck. “A Muscovy duck has been chasing people who live on this street, and when they couldn’t get the help they needed, they called me,” she said.
“I saw the duck’s rage firsthand.” This anecdote underscores the seriousness of the issue: when even journalists become targets, it’s no longer a neighborhood quirk — it’s a community emergency.
The duck’s presence has not only disrupted daily routines but has also instilled a sense of unease in a community largely composed of elderly residents. For some, the fear of being ambushed by an aggressive bird is enough to avoid going outside altogether. This has, understandably, sparked calls for intervention.
Wildlife Rules and Community Frustration
Though many might assume animal control or a wildlife agency would quickly step in, the reality is more complicated. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has acknowledged the issue, but their hands are somewhat tied. Muscovy ducks are not native to Florida; they originate from Mexico, Central America, South America, and some areas of Texas. Yet despite their non-native status, they are still protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
However, there’s a significant caveat: the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has issued a special control order for these ducks. This means that while they are protected, they can be removed from areas outside their natural range — like Cape Coral — under certain conditions. But here’s the catch: the FWC does not actively remove nuisance ducks. Instead, the responsibility falls to the landowner, who may either take action themselves or hire a licensed wildlife trapper.
This has left residents in a difficult position. On one hand, they’re facing a literal threat from a wild animal. On the other hand, they’re being told to handle the situation on their own. Some have expressed outrage at the lack of immediate assistance. “They’re actually committing injury to individuals,” Sepulveda noted, adding that he simply wants to “get rid” of the bird before more people get hurt.
According to FWC guidelines, Muscovy ducks can be removed through humane methods, including live capture using nets or cage traps. Alternatively, they can be taken with a firearm during daylight hours, but only on private property and with the landowner’s permission. For an elderly population not particularly interested in wielding nets or firearms, this is a less-than-reassuring solution.
Adding to the challenge is the duck’s cunning nature. It doesn’t stay in one spot for long, often moving stealthily between homes and porches. It’s shown an uncanny ability to avoid capture and a clear intent to stand its ground. It’s not just about food or territory — it’s about control.
As the duck drama unfolds, the residents of Cape Coral find themselves in an unusual situation: trapped by bureaucracy, afraid of a bird, and desperate for a peaceful solution. In a state that often makes headlines for the bizarre and outrageous, a duck terrorizing a retirement community is the latest chapter in Florida’s strange saga.
But for the people living in that neighborhood, it’s no laughing matter. It’s a story of safety, aging populations, and a surprisingly resilient duck with an attitude. While animal lovers may sympathize with the plight of the misunderstood Muscovy, the people of Cape Coral just want their porches back — and a sunset without bloodshed.