Beloved Escapee Owl Flaco Dies in New York City
Flaco, the Eurasian eagle-owl who became a celebrity after escaping from New York City's Central Park Zoo, has died after colliding with a building.
Flaco's Untimely Death
Zoo officials confirmed on Friday that Flaco, the escaped Eurasian eagle-owl from Central Park Zoo, has died. After being freed from the zoo over a year ago, Flaco became a beloved celebrity as he soared above the Manhattan skyline. It is believed that he collided with a building on the Upper West Side, leading to his untimely demise.
The zoo released a statement expressing their disappointment and holding the vandal responsible for Flaco's death. They called on the NYPD to make an arrest in the ongoing investigation. Staff from the Wild Bird Fund responded to the scene of the collision and declared Flaco dead. A necropsy will be performed at the Bronx Zoo to determine the cause of death.
Flaco's Great Escape
Flaco's adventure began on February 2, 2023, when someone broke into the Central Park Zoo and set him free. Since then, he had been roaming the city freely, defying the odds of survival after spending 13 years in captivity. Despite the lack of information about the crime and the suspended efforts to re-capture Flaco, he managed to thrive in the urban jungle. During the day, he would relax in courtyards and parks, as well as perch on fire escapes. At night, he could be found hooting from water towers and hunting rats.
Bird watchers tracked his movements around the city, and New Yorkers were delighted by his unexpected visits to their windows. Flaco became a beloved figure in the city, capturing the hearts of many. News of his death prompted an outpouring of grief on social media.
Remembering Flaco
David Barrett, one of Flaco's most dedicated observers, suggested a temporary memorial at the owl's favorite oak tree in Central Park. This memorial would allow fellow birders and fans to pay their respects and share their love for Flaco. Barrett shared this idea in a post on social media, where he had been documenting Flaco's whereabouts.
Flaco's untimely death marks the end of an era in New York City. Many will remember him as a symbol of freedom and resilience, capable of thriving in the concrete jungle. His legacy will live on in the memories of those who admired him.
