A rare and unexpected sight has captivated residents of Manhattan’s Upper West Side as a family of barn owls has taken up residence in a water tower near Central Park. The presence of the birds—known for their striking appearance and elusive nature—has drawn attention from locals and wildlife enthusiasts alike. Their nesting spot offers a striking contrast to the urban landscape, sparking curiosity about how these nocturnal hunters are adapting to city life. The discovery highlights an unusual intersection of wildlife and urban development in one of the world’s busiest cities.
Manhattan's Upper West Side has been reveling in the company of its latest celebrities: A family of barn owls nested in a water tower atop a building near Central Park.