Flaco, a Eurasian eagle owl, escaped from the Central Park Zoo in New York City on February 2, 2023, after someone deliberately damaged his enclosure by cutting through the stainless steel mesh. This act of vandalism allowed Flaco to break free and explore the city, captivating the public and sparking debates on animal welfare and captivity.
How Did Flaco, the Eurasian Eagle Owl, Escape From the Central Park Zoo?
Flaco’s escape from the Central Park Zoo was the result of a deliberate act of vandalism. An unknown individual cut through the protective mesh of Flaco’s enclosure, creating a hole large enough for the Eurasian eagle owl to fly out and begin his year-long adventure in Manhattan.
Risks Flaco Faced While Living in the Wild After His Escape
After his escape, Flaco faced several risks while living in the wild:
- Ingesting Rat Poison: Flaco, who primarily preyed on rats, was at risk of ingesting rat poison, which could cause internal bleeding and other health issues.
- Fatal Collisions with Vehicles: As Flaco navigated the urban landscape, he was at risk of colliding with vehicles, which could be fatal.
- Urban Dangers: Flaco faced various urban dangers, including toxic substances and unforeseen hazards, which could threaten his survival.
Cause of Flaco’s Death After His Year-Long Adventure in Manhattan
Flaco died on February 23, 2024, after colliding with a building on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. He was found on the ground and declared dead by the Wild Bird Fund staff. A necropsy was performed at the Bronx Zoo to determine the exact cause of death.
Additional Details About Flaco
- Flaco’s Background: Flaco was born on March 15, 2010, in Scotland Neck, North Carolina. He was a male Eurasian eagle owl who lived at the Central Park Zoo for over a decade before his escape.
- Initial Concerns: Initially, there were concerns about Flaco’s ability to survive in the wild due to his long captivity. However, he demonstrated remarkable adaptability and hunting skills, catching and eating rats within a week of his escape.
- Recapture Attempts: Zoo officials attempted to recapture Flaco using dead rats and audio recordings of eagle-owl calls, but these efforts were unsuccessful. Eventually, they ceased attempts to recapture him as he showed improved flying skills and regular feeding habits.
- Public Reaction: Flaco’s escape and subsequent life in the wild garnered significant public attention and admiration. Many saw him as a symbol of resilience and freedom, while others debated the ethics of captivity and animal welfare.