Flaco the Owl. The Story of the Most Famous Bird in the World

In February 2023, an owl named Flaco mysteriously escaped from the cramped enclosure of the New York City Zoo, where he had spent his entire life, and became a free inhabitant of the metropolis, turning into a global sensation. Some demanded respect for his natural desire for freedom, while others feared that the bird would not survive long in the wild.

A year later, Flaco indeed perished, but left behind an impressive legacy.

Exploring the biography of the superstar owl, journalist David Gessner reflects on birds, birdwatchers, cities, online debates, and the complex relationship between humans and the environment—and admires the moments of free flight, however brief they may be.