People, especially ignorant or immature individuals, forget or disregard that certain animals aren’t supposed to eat human food. They process food differently, so what could be a snack or treat to us could be deadly for an oblivious creature. Unfortunately, one young man from Los Angeles, California, didn’t get that memo and force-fed a thirsty hawk a sip of a BuzzBallz. Even for those who don’t drink, it’s pretty clear from the name that a BuzzBallz contains alcohol, which can be toxic and lethal to birds.
The man fed the Cooper’s hawk alcohol back in June 2025 and uploaded a video of the incident, probably thinking it was a fun prank on the innocent animal. However, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Post has reported that the man has been charged with animal cruelty and has been sentenced to 45 days in jail with 12 months of summary probation.
He’ll also have to endure community service, a counseling program, prohibitions spanning over years, and a $220. In other words, this jokester really set himself back with this stunt. Not only are Cooper’s hawks protected under the law, but harassing any wildlife is illegal.
Of course, plenty of online commenters found the situation hilarious, which goes to show what these sorts of jokes are fueled by, as any reckless pranks are. Yet a good portion also expressed sympathy for the poor hawk, wondering whether it was okay after being literally poisoned.
“He definitely could have killed the poor thing,” says a Redditor. “Imagine capturing a protected wild animal and then forcing it to drink alcohol for your amusement,” criticizes another. “Just when you think people can’t get any more effing stupid….😒,” sighs a third. Unfortunately, the whereabouts and well-being of the hawk are unknown, as the culprit released it before the authorities took him in.
Naturally, most people who love their pets won’t force-feed them alcoholic beverages, but it might be wise to become more educated on what dogs, cats, and other domesticated animals should not eat. Chocolate, for instance, can be toxic to pets. Likewise, unless someone wants the authorities on their back, feeding wild animals any random human foods can be dangerous and, oftentimes, illegal.
