Yesterday, some sales associates at @saks came outside to look at Astoria the wild turkey. I asked one what he thought of her fashion. He said that Astoria’s style is exquisite and he expects her to be invited to the Met Gala next year. #birds #birding #nature #wildlife #birdcpp

Every little thing Flaco did could elicit ooh’s and ah’s (quietly whispered), whether it was a quick glance, a head scratch or a shake. But, on occasion, we were treated to something truly remarkable. I am forever grateful to Flaco for permitting us these experiences. (Cont’d) – at Manhattan, NY

I agree. The Zoo had ample opportunity to try to catch him. They seemed to spare no expense on their effort and came very, very close at least once. Ultimately, Flaco had other ideas. The Zoo’s leadership decided it would be fine to let Flaco remain free, a decision I’m sure they did not take lightly given their professional and legal responsibilities. They have never said they bowed to any public pressure. And Flaco was indeed thriving for more than a year—far longer than the naysayers said he would be able to live. Flaco didn’t die because he was an escaped zoo animal who didn’t know how to take care of himself. Suggesting that is just untrue. The WCS has already said his body condition was good and he weighed virtually as much when he died as he did in the Zoo. The WCS will soon know whether he was ill at the time of his death but, either way, it seems likely he died from something that can afflict any wild bird. As we know all too well from Rover, Barry and countless other unnamed birds, tragedies are a daily occurrence in nature. Some might say it’s anthropomorphizing to celebrate Flaco’s freedom. I think it’s anthropomorphizing to assume that a raptor with a six foot wingspan and the instinct to hunt live prey would want to be anything other than free. Just a guess though, I’m not an owl.

This is really, really good and captures Flaco’s personality perfectly.

I was on @WNYC's Morning Edition with @MichaelHillNJ today to talk about Flaco. The recording is in this article on @Gothamist: gothamist.com/arts-entertain… Thank you much to WNYC, Michael and Amanda for giving me the opportunity to share some reflections on Flaco's story! #birdcpp – at Manhattan, NY

A round, orange sight for sore eyes. Flaco the Eurasian eagle-owl back in Central Park this evening. He looked great and did not have any apparent mishaps during his adventure. That adventure may or may not be over now. Nonetheless, it was nice to see him in the park. #birdcpp