Empire State Review Team 
Rosie the Turkey Takes Manhattan
Location: NEW YORK
A Feathered Celebrity Emerges
Rosie, the charming turkey from Roosevelt Island, has recently made headlines by migrating across the East River to Manhattan. This unique bird, known affectionately by some as “Astoria,” is becoming a familiar sight in Midtown, drawing attention for her unusual urban antics.
From Roosevelt Island to the Big Apple
Having taken up residence on Roosevelt Island about a year ago, Rosie quickly endeared herself to local residents. Renowned for her confident strolls along the sidewalks and occasional forays into building lobbies in search of snacks, she soon became a beloved part of the community. As a resident noted, “She used to nest in the back of my building. She even tried to go inside the building—they had to shoo her out of the lobby!”
An Adventurous Migration
Recently, during the turkey mating season, Rosie exhibited signs of wanting to expand her territory. On a remarkable day, she flew over to Manhattan, as confirmed by David Barrett from the Manhattan Bird Alert. He stated, “It’s mating season for turkeys. She’d been showing some signs of expanding her range… On Sunday, she flew across the East River, amazingly, and back to Manhattan.”
Rosie’s New Territory
Since her arrival in Manhattan, Rosie has been frequently spotted throughout Midtown, including at Honey Locust Park on 59th Street. Despite NYPD’s attempts to safely capture her, she continues to enjoy her newfound environment.
Concerns for Her Safety
While Rosie is relishing the vibrant city life, not everyone is pleased with her excursion. Many residents have expressed concerns regarding her safety amid the heavy traffic and bustling crowds of Manhattan. Barrett pointed out the potential dangers, noting, “Manhattan is much more dangerous than Roosevelt Island. There’s more traffic, there are people who don’t know how to deal with her… all of these things make life more treacherous for her in Midtown Manhattan.”
