On a glorious spring day, over seventy New Yorkers gathered at Columbia University’s Butler Library to explore the fascinating world of owls. The event, titled “What Flaco Taught Us: Thoughts on Urban Wildlife and the Human Connection,” featured ecologist Carl Safina and science journalist Claudia Dreifus.
Safina, a renowned ecologist and author, shared insights from his latest book “Alfie and Me: What Owls Know, What Humans Believe,” which delves into our relationship with nature. The discussion touched on the disconnect between humans and the natural world, prompting reflections on environmental values across different cultures.
Reflecting on the life and death of Flaco, the Eurasian eagle owl that captured the hearts of New Yorkers, Safina highlighted the hidden longing for nature within city dwellers. The audience was moved by the profound impact Flaco had, reminding them of the importance of coexistence with the natural world.
As the evening concluded, audience members pondered ways to cultivate nature-connected individuals, with Safina emphasizing the value of everyday interactions with the environment. From his own experiences growing up in Brooklyn, Safina stressed the importance of instilling an appreciation for nature in the next generation.
Flaco’s story serves as a poignant reminder that nature touches us all, urging us to cherish and protect our fragile ecosystem. The longing for the natural world is evident in the hearts of New Yorkers, a sentiment that resonates beyond the confines of the concrete jungle.
