Yes, there's some risk of getting beat up a bit, so it would be ideal to be wearing gloves and coveralls. I would not let that slow me down though, but I have experience with catching them in midair while they are coming at me.
Mostly, it's a matter of being confident and moving quickly. You can expect to get hurt if your movements and reactions are slower than the bird; above all, do not let it gain the initiative or advantage.
The same approach will help you to avoid running into any issues with the relevant government agencies. They won't charge you if they don't catch you. Wear an orange vest over the coveralls, and it's likely no one will even question your actions.
Mostly, it's a matter of being confident and moving quickly. You can expect to get hurt if your movements and reactions are slower than the bird; above all, do not let it gain the initiative or advantage.
The same approach will help you to avoid running into any issues with the relevant government agencies. They won't charge you if they don't catch you. Wear an orange vest over the coveralls, and it's likely no one will even question your actions.