While hunting waterfowl in the rolling prairies of North Dakota, a seasoned hunter who was also operating a camera experienced a bizarre mishap that quickly went viral. As the hunter steadied his lens to capture the flight of a flock, a duck that had been shot fell straight toward him, striking his face before it hit the ground.
Video shows the unexpected impact
The incident was recorded by other cameras that were rolling at the same time. In the footage, the duck can be seen descending rapidly, its wings flailing, before it makes contact with the hunter’s cheek. The impact looks like a sack of potatoes hitting a person, and the hunter briefly pauses, seemingly stunned, before shaking his head and smiling.
Outlets share the clip
Waterfowl Unlimited Outfitters posted the clip on Instagram alongside Outdoor Channel TV, describing it as a “ONE in a MILLION SHOT!!!!” The post quickly attracted attention from hunting enthusiasts and casual viewers alike. Whiskey Riff, a popular outdoor‑media outlet, confirmed the location as somewhere in North Dakota, though the exact town was not disclosed.
Hunter’s reaction and safety reminder
In a brief interview after the incident, the hunter said he was “sore the next day” but was grateful that the duck did not cause serious injury. He emphasized that while the risk of a falling bird hitting a photographer is real, it is an uncommon occurrence. “You never really think about it until it happens,” he noted, adding that the experience reminded him to stay alert when handling equipment in the field.
Why the moment matters
For the hunting community, the video serves as both a cautionary tale and a light‑hearted reminder of the unpredictable nature of the outdoors. It also highlights the growing popularity of wildlife photography during hunts, where hunters often document their pursuits for personal archives or social‑media sharing. The clip’s rapid spread underscores how a single, unexpected event can capture the imagination of a broader audience.
Looking ahead
The hunter plans to return to the waterfowl season later this year, hoping to avoid another “duck‑to‑the‑face” incident. He encourages fellow hunters to wear protective eyewear and to be mindful of their surroundings when operating cameras near active shooting zones.
Overall, the incident is a reminder that even seasoned outdoorsmen can encounter surprising moments in the field, and that sharing those moments can bring a smile to viewers far beyond the hunting grounds.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
