Bald Eagle Drops Cat on North Carolina Driver’s Windshield

URGENT UPDATE: A surreal incident unfolded on November 19, 2025, when a driver in Swain County, North Carolina, reported that a bald eagle dropped a cat carcass through her windshield while she was driving on U.S. Route 74. This bizarre event occurred near Bryson City, approximately 65 miles southwest of Asheville.

The driver called 911 early Wednesday morning, visibly shaken, stating, “You may not believe me, but I just had a bald eagle drop a cat through my windshield. It absolutely shattered my windshield.” The dispatcher responded with disbelief but assured her, “I do believe you, honestly,” before sharing a laugh about the unusual situation.

Witnesses confirmed the shocking event, with another person reportedly saying, “That is the craziest thing I’ve ever seen.” The dispatcher remained calm, attempting to gather information while navigating the unusual circumstances. After confirming the cat was dead and located on the side of the road, the dispatcher dispatched the Highway Patrol to investigate the incident further.

Officials from the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission weighed in, stating that while eagles can indeed carry prey as large as a cat, it is much more challenging to do so with a live one. Kendrick Weeks, a representative of the commission, explained, “They usually don’t prey on something they don’t find palatable. Scavenging is a common behavior in bald eagles.”

Weeks also noted that eagles may drop their prey for various reasons, including a poor grip or if the prey is struggling, which could pose a risk to the bird. In some cases, eagles drop prey when being harassed by other birds or if the prey becomes too heavy to carry. However, it is rare for bald eagles to drop prey as a killing tactic.

This incident has sparked conversation and disbelief across social media, as people react to the extraordinary account of nature colliding with everyday life. The driver’s story exemplifies the unpredictable and often surprising interactions between wildlife and humans.

As the investigation by local authorities continues, many are left wondering about the unusual circumstances surrounding this event and what it means for local wildlife behavior.

The story has quickly gone viral, illustrating the fascination and wonder that nature can evoke, even in the most unexpected scenarios. Stay tuned for more updates as this developing story unfolds.