Man Jailed for Giving Alcohol to Hawk: A Sign of Growing Wildlife Cruelty Concerns?
A Los Angeles man, Cesar Gustavo Diaz, 25, of Watts, has been sentenced to 45 days in jail and 12 months of probation after being found guilty of animal cruelty. The case stemmed from a YouTube video showing Diaz offering a BuzzBallz ready-to-drink cocktail to a juvenile Cooper’s hawk at Amelia Mayberry Park in South Whittier in June 2025. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) investigated after community members flagged the video.
The Incident and Investigation
Screenshots from the video display Diaz pouring the alcoholic beverage into the hawk’s mouth. Authorities identified Diaz, and subsequent searches led to his arrest – he was already in custody on unrelated charges. He claimed to have released the hawk before law enforcement intervention, but the bird’s current condition remains unknown. Diaz pleaded no contest to the misdemeanor animal cruelty charge.
Beyond BuzzBallz: A Rise in Human-Wildlife Conflicts
This case isn’t isolated. Wildlife authorities are increasingly encountering instances of humans intentionally interacting with wildlife in harmful ways. The CDFW also noted a separate clip from YouTube showed the same hawk with a joint in its mouth. This highlights a disturbing trend of individuals treating wild animals as props for social media content, often with detrimental consequences. The ease of sharing videos online amplifies these incidents, potentially encouraging copycat behavior.
The Impact of Alcohol on Birds
Even small amounts of alcohol can be toxic to birds. Their systems are not equipped to process ethanol, leading to neurological damage, impaired flight, and potentially death. Cooper’s hawks, like the one in this case, are protected under both federal and California law, making the intentional harm even more serious. The Migratory Bird Treaty Act provides legal protection for these birds.
Legal Repercussions and Penalties
In addition to the jail time, Diaz was sentenced to 20 days of community labor, a 24-session animal cruelty counseling program, and a five-year ban on possessing animals. He is also prohibited from possessing firearms for ten years and must pay $220 in fines and fees. This case demonstrates that authorities are taking these incidents seriously and are willing to prosecute offenders to the full extent of the law.
Reporting Wildlife Crime
The CDFW encourages anyone with information about crimes involving animals to contact them at 888-334-2258. Public vigilance is crucial in identifying and preventing these harmful interactions.
Pro Tip:
Never approach or feed wild animals. Maintaining a safe distance is essential for both your safety and the animal’s well-being. Interfering with wildlife can disrupt their natural behaviors and put them at risk.
FAQ
- Is it illegal to feed wild animals? Yes, in many jurisdictions, it is illegal to intentionally feed wild animals, as it can alter their natural behaviors and create dependency on humans.
- What should I do if I see someone harming wildlife? Contact your local wildlife authorities or animal control immediately.
- Are hawks protected by law? Yes, Cooper’s hawks are protected under federal and California law.
- What are the penalties for animal cruelty? Penalties vary depending on the severity of the offense and local laws, but can include fines, jail time, and a ban on owning animals.
If you encounter wildlife in distress, please contact your local animal control or wildlife rehabilitation center for assistance. Learn more about responsible wildlife viewing practices at the California Department of Fish and Wildlife website.
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