Goldie (eagle) facts for kids

Goldie was a famous male golden eagle who lived at London Zoo in England during the 1960s. He became very well known across the country when he escaped for 12 days in March 1965.

Goldie's Great Escape

Goldie flew away from his keepers on February 28, 1965. This happened while his cage was being cleaned. He managed to stay free for almost two weeks. Many people tried to catch him, even using special equipment. Goldie spent most of his time in Regent's Park, which is right next to the zoo. But he also flew to nearby areas like Camden Town and Euston.

Everyone Was Watching

Goldie's escape really captured the attention of people all over Britain. The zoo received thousands of phone calls and letters about him. Large crowds gathered in Regent's Park to watch the zoo keepers try to catch the eagle. There were even big traffic jams in the area. Drivers would circle the park, hoping to catch a glimpse of Goldie flying free.

Media and Parliament

The news media followed Goldie's story very closely. On a BBC television show, a reporter named John Timpson tried to attract Goldie. He played an Ethiopian bird pipe, but it didn't work. Goldie was even mentioned in the House of Commons, which is where the British government makes laws. Members of Parliament cheered when his name was brought up!

Goldie's Adventures While Free

While he was free, Goldie, being a predatory bird, hunted for food. He caught and ate a duck in the garden of Winfield House. This is the home of the United States Ambassador to the UK, located inside Regent's Park. Goldie also tried to attack two terrier dogs in the park. However, their owner managed to scare him away.

Goldie Returns Home

Goldie was finally caught on March 11. The zoo's deputy head keeper used a dead rabbit to tempt him down to the ground. Goldie was in good health after his adventure. He was then reunited with his mate, Regina. After his return, the number of visitors to the zoo almost doubled!

Goldie escaped one more time on December 15, 1965. He was recaptured a few days later, on December 19, 1965, early in the morning.

Goldie's Later Life

On March 8, 1985, Goldie was moved to the Falconry Centre in Newent. He lived there for about a year. Goldie passed away around March 23, 1986.