NYC Mourns the Loss of Flaco, the Beloved Eurasian Eagle-Owl

Flaco, the Eurasian eagle-owl who captivated the hearts of New Yorkers after escaping from the Central Park Zoo, has tragically passed away in a collision with a building in Manhattan‘s Upper West Side, zoo officials confirmed Friday.

Responding to the scene, the Wild Bird Fund conducted an initial examination and declared Flaco deceased, with further investigations to be carried out through a necropsy at the Bronx Zoo by the Wildlife Conservation Society.

Flaco’s unforgettable journey began in February 2023 when he was liberated from his enclosure, sparking a city-wide search that saw the owl flourishing in the urban landscape despite a lifetime in captivity.

Throughout his time in the city, Flaco became a beloved icon, frequently spotted lounging in parks, perching on fire escapes, or hooting atop water towers under the watchful eyes of New Yorkers and avid bird watchers like David Barrett.

News of Flaco’s untimely demise has elicited an outpouring of grief on social media, with many suggesting a temporary memorial be set up at the bird’s favorite oak tree in Central Park for mourners to pay their respects.

David Barrett, known for the Manhattan Bird Alert account, proposed the idea for a gathering where fellow bird enthusiasts could honor Flaco with flowers, notes, or simply by sharing their love for the iconic owl.

As Eyewitness News reported the story, the Associated Press ensures that the legacy of Flaco, the cherished Eurasian eagle-owl, lives on in the hearts of all New Yorkers.

Journalist Toni Yates reflected on the life and times of Flaco, highlighting the impact his presence had on the city and its residents.