Wimbledon’s Hawk Rufus Spurs Succession Concerns Over Breeding Struggles, Sexuality Speculation

Wimbledon’s Iconic Hawk Rufus Sparks Succession Concerns Amid Mating Struggles

[Image: Rufus perched with Wimbledon in the background]
Caption: Rufus, the Harris’s hawk, has guarded Wimbledon’s skies from pigeons for 17 years.

Wimbledon’s secret weapon against pigeons, a Harris’s hawk named Rufus, is facing an unexpected challenge: a refusal to breed. For nearly two decades, the 17-year-old bird of prey has patrolled the All England Club, ensuring players and spectators aren’t disrupted by pests. But as Rufus ages, tournament officials are scrambling to find his successor—preferably his own offspring. Handler Donna, however, reveals Rufus has repeatedly shown no interest in mating, even sparking lighthearted speculation about his sexuality.

A Reluctant Romeo
Efforts to pair Rufus with a female hawk named Pamela ended in failure, with Donna noting their “aggressive” dynamic. “It wasn’t love at first sight,” she told The Telegraph. While Donna hasn’t ruled out future attempts, she humorously acknowledged Rufus might be gay, a trait occasionally observed in birds. “There’s every possibility,” she said.

[Image: Rufus with handler Donna]
Caption: Handler Donna has worked with Rufus since he was 16 weeks old.

From Pete Sampras’s Pest Problem to Legend
Rufus’s Wimbledon career began after tennis star Pete Sampras famously battled pigeons during matches. Donna, who trained Rufus since he was 16 weeks old, proposed the hawk as a natural solution. “He sees me as part of his pack—because I’m his food source,” she quipped. Beyond Wimbledon, Rufus works at Lord’s Cricket Ground, Westminster Abbey, and the Old Bailey, where his presence alone deters birds.

The Search Continues
Despite his storied career, Rufus’s legacy remains in limbo. His handlers hope to try breeding again, but for now, the hawk remains single and focused on duty. “He’s protective of me,” Donna said, “but that’s because I feed him—not because he loves me.”

[Image: Rufus in flight]
Caption: Rufus’s mere presence scares off pigeons at high-profile venues.

As Wimbledon enjoys another year of pristine matches, Rufus keeps watch—unbothered by the chatter about his love life and ever-dedicated to his job.