Flaco, North America’s last wild Eurasian eagle-owl, perished after colliding with a building in Manhattan on Friday. He escaped from the Central Park Zoo last year when his habitat was vandalized.
According to a statement from the zoo, the Wild Bird Fund (WBF) discovered Flaco dead on the spot and notified them. They grabbed his remains and transported them to the Bronx Zoo for necropsy.
“The vandal who damaged Flaco’s exhibit jeopardized the safety of the bird and is ultimately responsible for his death,” the zoo said.
In 2010, the zoo rescued Flaco as a baby owl. He spent 13 years as an exhibit before escaping. He was thought to be unable to survive in the wild, but he proved to be an accomplished hunter and flyer.
Flaco: No way to the Zoo
The zoo attempted to recover him using bait and calls, but he did not fall for them. They gave up after a few weeks but continued to monitor him. They indicated they were willing to assist him if he needed it.
Flaco spent most of his time in or near Central Park, but he did venture out into the city on occasion. Some believed he was looking for a mate. He was frequently observed by those who loved his beauty and grandeur.
“We appreciate all the support and concern over the wellbeing of Flaco throughout the past year and the many people who contacted us with updates,” the zoo said.
“We especially appreciate the quick response by the staff of the Wild Bird Fund in their attempt to help Flaco.”
Flaco’s death generated outrage on social media. Many individuals on X (previously known as Twitter) expressed their sadness and admiration for his incredible journey. One user proposed demolishing the structure where he had crashed.
Flaco was a big owl with a wingspan of approximately 6 feet (1.8 meters). Ornithologist Stephen Ambrose’s 2020 study revealed that city lights could dazzle owls and cause them to crash into structures.