Construction in the tower continued yesterday, in violation of DEC cease and desist orders from the prior day. Thankfully NY lawmakers, Department of Environmental Conservation officers, and police did not sit idle as this historic nest was being destroyed.

They are safe for now, but with the cold approaching, getting these birds safe is critical.

From Erik Bottcher (State Senator)

A family of seven Barn Owls, believed to be the first documented nesting family in Manhattan in modern history, has captured the hearts of New Yorkers.

But their lives are in danger.

Yesterday, construction crews suddenly removed the roof of the water tower where the two parents and their five fledglings had been nesting, destroying their shelter in apparent violation of federal and state laws protecting nesting birds.

Following public outcry, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) issued a cease-and- desist order halting construction.

But today, construction workers returned to the site in violation of that order.

Manhattan Borough President Brad Hoylman-Sigal and I went to the scene with NYC Bird Alliance to demand that the work stop and that these precious birds be protected.

There is some encouraging news: All seven owls have been spotted alive, and the parents have been seen feeding their young.

But they remain vulnerable, and their nesting site must be protected.

New York City is home to more than eight million people, but we share this city with extraordinary wildlife. They deserve a safe place here, too.

We will not stop fighting until this family is safe and those responsible are held accountable. 🦉