I was touched by the story of Flaco, the Eurasian eagle-owl who escaped his long-time enclosure at Central Park Zoo in February,2023 . People were concerned that he wouldn't survive out in the concrete jungle, but Flaco proved to be a deft big-city hunter. With his knack for freedom and survival, this plucky underdog gained a lot of fans. He gained the status of a folk hero, being spotted all over the city. Sadly, after he was found dead in February 2024, rat poison and severe pigeon virus were detected in his system. This owl will be missed, but his legend will live on. As my daughters stroll through Central Park, I imagine the wisdom of an owl perched upon their shoulders, guiding them on their path. Their freedom is fueled by this high-flying spirit, who soars above crosstown traffic. Long live Flaco.
Prints of this piece are available here, in my Etsy shop.
10% of profits from each print will be donated to World Wildlife Fund.