A paraglider in Haute Savoie was seriously injured by a golden eagle.
The bird of prey attacked the man on the face and the hands while he was above Dent-du-Villard. The attack is being described as unusually violent.
The bird pecked the man on the neck and then dug its talons into his hands - in all the length of the attack lasted 13 minutes.
The paraglider needed stitches. He told the press the pain was intense.
Experts say they believe the eagle was likely to be protecting its nest as it’s breeding season. Paragliders are advised to avoid the area until after August.