New York City's beloved barred owl dies after being struck by Central Park maintenance vehicle

Barry the barred owl flew into New York City's heart in October 2020, becoming an instant celebrity in Central Park. But the Central Park Conservancy announced Friday that Barry has died after being struck by one of its maintenance vehicles overnight. 

The Conservancy said in a statement that Barry had been flying low, likely while searching for food, when it "made contact" with a maintenance vehicle at around 2:30 Friday morning. Staff reported the incident and contacted the Urban Park Rangers.  "The barred owl's presence in Central Park brought so much joy, reminding all of us that the Park is a vital greenspace for all New Yorkers, including the wildlife that call it home," the Conservancy said.