Owls are powerful birds of prey with sharp talons, strong beaks, and exceptional senses, making them hazardous to small animals. However, they usually are never dangerous to people. Most owls tend to avoid people, but on rare occasions, attacks occur during nesting season or if threatened. Large species such as the Great Horned Owl can even attack small pets that stay outdoors. While owls have the physical tools that make them potentially dangerous, they are non-aggressive in nature and highly important in maintaining a balanced ecosystem.
What Makes Owls Turn Aggressive?
Whereas owls are normally timid and elusive birds, they can be quite surprisingly aggressive when the conditions require them to be, especially in defense of the most valuable things in their lives.
Owls are very territorial and defensive, especially concerning their nests, mates, and young. They may launch an attack without warning if they feel threatened, whether by a human, other animal, or even an intruder much larger than themselves. Their aggressiveness has nothing to do with hunting or malice but rather with defense against an intruder.
One of the most common times for owl aggression is during the breeding season. Both male and female owls may become unusually bold and confrontational if they believe their nest is in danger. These attacks can happen without warning and are usually aimed at driving the threat away-not causing serious harm. In particular, recently matured male owls may also display heightened aggression. With surging testosterone levels, they are often in the process of establishing dominance in their habitat. This can make them more confrontational toward rivals or even perceived intruders, including humans who get too close.
What to Do If an Owl Attacks You:
Although rare, owl attacks on humans do occur and are most common during nesting season. Here’s what to know and do if it happens to you:
Why Owls Attack:
• They are defending their nest, mate, or young.
• Owls may view you as a threat—even when you are not intending to be.
• Attacks are mainly unannounced, as owls fly silently.
They target the head or face, using their sharp talons.
Immediate Actions to Take in Case of an Owl Attack
1. Cover Your Head
- Use your arms, hands, or anything you’re carrying (like a bag or jacket).
- This helps protect against talon injuries.
2. Wave and Make Noise
• Flail your arms and make loud sounds – shout, clap, etc.
• This might frighten the owl away.
3. Back Away Quickly
• Leave the area calmly but fast.
• You are probably close to the nest even when it isn’t visible.
4. Don’t Run or Crouch
- Running might make you look like prey.
- Standing tall and moving away is safer.
4. Don’t Run or Crouch
• Running puts you in a prey stance.
Instead, standing tall, and moving away is safer.
After the Attack:
• Check for injuries, especially to your head or face.
• Clean any cuts and seek medical help if necessary.
• The owl’s talons can create deep scratches, possibly leading to infection.
How to avoid owl attacks:
• Avoid nesting areas in the spring.
• Wear a hat or hoodie when walking in owl territory.
• Watch for warnings: loud clicking, swooping, or circling owls.
• Do not disturb owls or approach them to take any pictures or videos.
Should You Be Worried About Owls in Your Backyard?
There’s something magical-or at least, a little unnerving-about an owl perched in a tree, or hooting nearby. But if you’ve been seeing an owl hanging around your yard, you’re probably wondering: Should I be worried?
The answer depends on what sort of animals or activities are in your yard, and how close you are to the owl’s territory.
Let’s break down what it means to have an owl nearby, and whether it’s something to worry about—or welcome.
Why Do Owls Visit Backyards?
- Owls are attracted to places where:
- Plenty of food: small animals such as mice, rats, rabbits, insects, or birds
- Tall trees or quiet structures for perching and nesting
- Low levels of human disturbance, especially at night
- If your yard houses bird feeders, compost piles, chicken coops, or dense shrubbery, it could attract rodents, and where the rodents go, owls generally follow.
Are Owls Dangerous in Backyards?
1. To Humans:
• Owls are shy and avoid human contact; they will not attack unless:
• You approach a nest too closely during breeding season, usually occurring from March–July depending on species.
• You approach a nest too closely during breeding season, usually occurring from March–July depending on species
• They feel cornered or threatened
• Even then, attacks are very rare and normally only consist of a swooping action to scare you away.
2. To Pets:
Yes-small pets can be at risk.
• Large owls, such as Great Horned Owls or Barn Owls, might target:
Small dogs (less than 5–10 pounds)
• Cats
• Rabbits
• Chickens or ducklings
• Owls may strike fast and silently at night, thereby mistaking the pets for prey. However, these instances are not very common given that pets are kept indoors or well protected.
Signs an Owl Is Nesting Nearby:
• Frequent hooting or screeching at night
• Multiple-day sightings of the same owl in one area
• Discovery of owl pellets-owl regurgitated remains of prey, generally bones and fur
• Large nests in tall trees, particularly those near wooded areas
• If an owl is nesting in the vicinity, avoid bothering it and keep your distance. Nesting owls are far more protective and might get defensive.
Should You Attempt to Remove an Owl?
In most cases, no. Owls are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (U.S.) and similar wildlife protection laws in other countries. It’s illegal to harm, trap, or relocate most owl species without a permit.
Instead of removing the owl, take simple steps to peacefully coexist:
How to Stay Safe and Protect Your Pets
• Bring pets indoors at night, especially small dogs, cats, and rabbits
• Use motion-sensor lights to deter nighttime hunting
• Cover backyard poultry enclosures with hardware mesh—not just chicken wire
• Do not prune trees with active nests
• Supervise the outdoor time for pets during dawn and dusk
Why Owls in Your Backyard Might Be a Good Thing
- While it’s normal to be cautious, owls can be beneficial guests. Here’s why:
- They help control rodent populations naturally—one barn owl can eat over 1,000 mice a year!
- They usually don’t damage property or become aggressive
- Their presence is a sign of a healthy ecosystem
Why Owl Can Be Dangerous Lets See Some Videos