Residents in one Dutch village are cowering in their homes after their neighborhood came under attack by an aggressive eagle owl. 

The nocturnal creature with a wingspan of nearly 6-feet have been sighted swooping out of the sky in the town of Purmerend, the Netherlands and have reportedly hurt over a dozen people.

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The so-called "terror owl" had been attacking residents in recent weeks, sinking its talons into them.  

Many had sought medical attention for their wounds.

The latest victims reported were an athlete and his trainer who went out to jog Tuesday night. 

Both suffered head wounds when the owl swooped down and extended its powerful talons. 

Some 15 residents and several workers at the Prinsenstichting home for the disabled were also injured after an owl attack. 

Authorities in Purmerend, north of Amsterdam, have warned residents to stay away from the bird. 

Those who plan to go out at night must bring umbrellas to save themselves from the owl attack. 

The eagle owl was reported to be about 24 to 30 inches tall.

Wildlife officials are also keeping a close watch at the situation, to determine whether there is a need to euthanize the owl. 

Eagle owls are rare and protected by law.

A Dutch news site said, bird experts link an owl's behavior to the breeding season. 

Others speculate the owl was confined for so long, and when released showed an aggressive behavior.

Similar owl attacks happened in Salem, Oregon this month, prompting city officials to issue a yellow hazard warning. 

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