Five barn owls found after water tower roof removal

Construction crews tore off the roof of a water tower near Central Park on Thursday morning, scattering a family of seven barn owls that had been nesting inside the structure. The sudden removal of the roof left only one adult and one fledgling visible that night, while the remaining five birds disappeared from the immediate area. By Monday, bird experts and elected officials confirmed that all five missing chicks had been located roosting a few blocks away.

Jessica Wilson, executive director of the NYC Bird Alliance, said the organization contacted the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) immediately upon seeing the work begin. The DEC responded by issuing a cease-and-desist order, citing a violation of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, which protects active nests of migratory birds. Despite the legal order, crews returned to the site on Friday to continue repairs. The DEC installed a nesting box on the tower on Saturday, though Wilson noted the owlets may now be too old to use it.

Manhattan Borough President Brad Hoylman-Sigal stated on social media that the owls appear to be adjusting to their new circumstances. He noted that feedings are taking place elsewhere and described the birds as true Manhattanites for their quick adaptation. Wilson expressed relief that all five fledglings were seen over the weekend, ending the uncertainty that followed the Thursday morning disruption.

Wilson advised residents to leave the birds alone to ensure their safety. She specifically warned against getting too close, using flash photography, making loud noises, or allowing dogs to approach the owls. She also recommended avoiding the use of rodenticides, which can harm owls through the food chain.

The water tower remains a point of contention for the owls' future. Hoylman-Sigal said he hopes the DEC will delay further repairs for at least another week. This pause is intended to ensure the safety of the family, as several birds were spotted perching on the structure last night. The DEC's initial reaction to the roof removal was swift, but the return of crews on Friday raised questions about compliance with the stop-work order.

The family had originally been spotted nesting in a hole in the water tower before the repair work began. The federal law generally prohibits the disturbance or destruction of protected migratory bird nests while they are active. The incident has drawn attention to the balance between urban infrastructure maintenance and wildlife protection in dense city environments. Birders continue to monitor the area to track the movements of the relocated family.