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How did 'Barry the owl' die? Central Park's favorite resident mourned by New Yorkers

'Barry' the owl had captured the attention of bird watchers and regular Central Park visitors since last fall as it made the park its home

 A barred owl that made its home in Central Park and became everyone's 'favorite bird' died after meeting with an unfortunate accident on Friday, August 6. The owl, fondly called 'Barry' was hit by a conservancy maintenance vehicle. 'Barry' had captured the attention of bird watchers and regular Central Park visitors since last fall as it made the park its home.

The official statement by Central Park Conservancy announcing the owl's death read, "We are saddened to learn that our beloved BARRED OWL died last night in an accidental collision with a @CentralParkNYC maintenance vehicle." The statement added, "We will miss her wondrous and beautiful presence in the park." New Yorkers fondly remembered 'Barry' in social media posts post its demise.

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Central Park released a statement that said, "It is with a heavy heart we share that a barred owl, a beloved Central Park resident passed away early this morning. Flying low, likely in search of a meal, the barred owl made contact with a Conservancy maintenance vehicle at approximately 2:30 AM. Conservancy staff immediately reported the incident and Urban Park Rangers were contacted." The statement further added, "The barred owl's presence in Central Park brought so much joy, reminding all of us that the Park is a vital green space for all New Yorkers, including the wildlife that call it home."

'RIP Barry'

As soon as the news of Barry the owl's death broke out, people flooded Twitter mourning their ' favorite bird'. One user wrote, "I just found out about Barry the Owl and I’m totally bummed. I had such a great time searching and ultimately spotting that amazing bird #NYC" Another tweeted, "I think this sad news about Barry the Owl is enough to kill the final slivers of my faith in the universe." One user commented, "This is such sad news. The Owl is my Spirit Animal. RIP Barry. Such a beautiful creature."

One tweet read, "Also saying "the owl made contact" with the maintenance vehicle is a shitty way to put blame away from the staff who hit poor Barry. Now the Park lost something that can't be replaced if at all." Another user wrote, "Thank you for sharing all your photos of Barry this past year. I’m going to miss her so much. It’s so devastating. Perhaps you could do a video montage tribute? Your photos are all amazing."