Free Bird

As soon as vandals sliced his cage,

The owl took his leave,

Escaping into Central Park,

Quite easy to achieve.

His name is Flaco and he is

Magnificent to see,

As birders post their sightings 

Every day since he’s been free.

At first, there was concern that he

Would not catch any prey 

Or that he’d eat a poisoned rat,

With death the price to pay.

But soon enough he proved that he

Possessed that inborn skill

That guided him to where and what 

He needed for a kill.

Employees of the zoo did try

To lure him back to base,

Though once he’d tasted freedom

He preferred the open space.

The latest news reports announced

They’ve halted their pursuit,

So Flaco is forever free,

Worth much more than a hoot.