Raleigh Residents Report Being Attacked By Owls While Walking Outside
By Sarah Tate
August 16, 2021
Raleigh has had no shortage of strange animal encounters in recent memory, from a venom-spitting snake on the loose to a bear cub hanging out in a tree. Now, new creatures in Raleigh have been attacking people running through their neighborhoods.
Several residents in Raleigh have reported being attacked by owls as they walk through their neighborhoods. According to WRAL, they have voiced their concerns online about the avian attackers and have learned that they are not alone in their misery. As it turns out, the birds have reportedly flown at passersby during the mornings and evenings.
One such resident is Margaret Boyse, who claims that an owl flew at her head a couple weeks ago.
"I just felt something massaging my scalp like two hands rubbing my scalp," said Boyse. "So I ducked and turned to see if there was a person near me and there wasn't and the owl flew into a nearby tree."
Bird talons are known for being sharp, but fortunately for Boyse, she wasn't hurt during the attack.
According to state wildlife officials, the owls are most likely juveniles learning how to hunt properly and likely mistaking human for their intended prey. They suggest anyone walking or running outside avoid areas where owls are present to ensure they are not injured.