Expert: Roger Lederer - 8/29/2008

Question
Hi,
I regularly go running in the Washington Park Arboretum in Seattle around twilight, but I've had to give it up this summer because I've been attacked by owls! This happened once last July, but wasn't a problem the rest of the summer.  But this year, they seem to be more dedicated to running off the runners. Another friend has had similar experiences.  
The first couple of times, an owl swooped down toward me and came pretty close, but didn't touch me.  The last time, it stole my hat and sat up in a tree with it for a few minutes before dropping it and coming after me again. My friend actually got some nasty scratches on his shoulder (through two layers of fabric).
I would guess that these aren't truly very large birds, but they sure look big enough when they're heading for my face with talons outstretched.  They look like they might be 9-12 in. tall, with a lighter belly - it's hard to see because they're either up under a tree in twilight or I'm running away from them.  Here are my questions: What kind of owls could these be?  Is this a territorial thing?  If so, why isn't it a problem the rest of the year?  I've been running in the arboretum for years -- why has this just started now?  I've asked some folks at the arboretum office, but they didn't know anything about this -- they basically said, "We're plant people, not bird people." And finally, is there any way I can scare them off - without hurting or unduly stressing them out -- so I can run without fearing aerial attacks?  (I don't want to scare them out of the arboretum, just away from me. I was just wondering if any kind of clothing, like a reflective jacket, or noise might be likely to keep them away.) Any info and suggestions you have would be much appreciated!  
Thanks!

Answer
I find it extremely unusual that owls would attack a jogger. In fact, it is extremely rare for any owl or hawk to get so close to a human to scratch them or take their hat. But it does happen.Great Horned Owls begin to set up territories in late fall and will become somewhat aggressive. Or it could be another kind of owl.

The other reason that this might be happening and the clue is the stealing of your hat,is confused young birds.Young owls are still learning what appropriate prey is and they have been known to attack, hats, fuzzy gloves, etc. that vaguely resemble a squirrel. If I had to bet, I'd bet this is the reason and this behavior ought to cease in a month or so. Meanwhile, bright clothing or a plastic construction hat ought to protect your head. Just don't wear a coonskin cap!