Flaco, the Eurasian eagle-owl who captured the hearts of New Yorkers after escaping from the Central Park Zoo, has tragically passed away. The beloved owl's journey came to a heartbreaking end when he collided with a building on the Upper West Side, a little over a year after his daring escape from the zoo.
The zoo officials have attributed Flaco's untimely death to the vandalism that led to his initial escape. The criminal act, which involved cutting a hole in his cage, ultimately resulted in the loss of this iconic bird. The NYPD is currently investigating the vandalism in the hopes of bringing the responsible party to justice.
Despite his captivity for 13 years at the zoo, Flaco managed to adapt to life in the city and became a familiar sight to many New Yorkers. His escapades around Manhattan, from lounging in courtyards to perching on fire escapes, endeared him to the community. Flaco's nocturnal activities, such as hooting from water towers and hunting rats, made him a unique and cherished character in the urban landscape.
Following his death, an outpouring of grief has been seen on social media, with many expressing their sadness at the loss of this remarkable bird. Suggestions for a temporary memorial at Flaco's favorite oak tree in Central Park have been made, where admirers can pay their respects and remember the joy he brought to their lives.
Flaco's story is a testament to resilience and the bond between humans and wildlife. His unexpected journey from the confines of the zoo to the bustling streets of New York City captured the imagination of many, leaving a lasting impact on all who crossed paths with him.
