A couple of years ago a reader was attacked by an owl near the McGraw Bridge. The attack happened in the pre-dawn early morning, right before Halloween. This year, the owls near Wolf Creek Ravine are attacking again.
A reader was attacked Friday morning when out on a 6am run, just past the McGraw Bridge. Other readers have noted owl attacks on the other side of the bridge, near Lorentz Place (which backs to Wolf Creek Ravine). Here’s where the Friday attack took place:
This time of year is when owls attack, so a warning if you walk, run, or bike near the Wolf Creek Ravine, as that’s where attacks tend to happen.
While Seattle Audubon points out that you’re typically more likely to hear an owl than see one, attacks are not uncommon this time of year:
“Most aggressive behavior from owls is motivated by defense of their territory or young, or their search for handouts. In winter owls establish territories, build nests, and rear young. During this period, adult birds may engage in belligerent behavior, such as attacking creatures many times their size. In this case, the owls are simply trying to protect their homes, their mates, or their young.”
How can you stay safe from owl attacks? Other than avoiding the area – which, in this case, isn’t possible for many who live near the McGraw Bridge and Wolf Creek Ravine, Seattle Audubon suggests the following:
“When possible, stay away from nesting areas with aggressive birds until the young are flying (three to four weeks after eggs hatch) and the parents are no longer so protective. If you must walk past a nest, wave your arms slowly overhead to keep the birds at a distance. Other protective actions include wearing a hat or helmet, or carrying an umbrella.”
Note that other wooded areas and parks on Queen Anne are likely home to owls too, so take care when out in our dark early mornings for a couple more weeks.