Since we moved here in 2006, Battery Park has been graced by the presence of a majestic senior citizen by the name of Zelda. Zelda, a wild turkey, and had been a vibrant and steady part of life here. According to the New York Times, she has been in the city since around 2002 and was the only wild turkey to permanently reside in the city. No matter how or when she arrived, she has been a wonder to visitors and residents, and a comforting reminder of the marvels of Mother Nature. She survived Hurricanes Irene and Sandy hunkered down in her niche at Battery Park, and many mornings as I walked the park I could see her roosting quietly in one of the large trees down by the Staten Island Ferry Terminal. Zelda had the run of the park and often could be seen crossing the busy streets of the area. She survived all the stuff she was fed by tourists and residents alike. But alas, she is gone. According to several media sources she was a victim of being hit by a car. Zelda had a special place here, and I will miss seeing her in the park. It makes me marvel even more though, about this city. Anything is possible, anything can happen. And does.
Posted on: Thu, 09 Oct 2014 20:19:33 +0000