After being trapped for two weeks in the walls of 19th century building in the West Village, Molly the cat was finally located and freed shortly after 10 p.m. Friday, ending several days of media stakeouts.
Rescuers finally drilled a hole in the wall of the 157-year-old landmarked building on Hudson Street where the elusive feline was trapped. Earlier Friday, the Landmarks Preservation Commission gave rescuers permission to do whatever necessary to free the cat, despite the building’s 157-year-old history.
More than 40 Animal Care and Control workers spent days trying to lure the little black kitten out of her hiding spot using everything from fresh fish to new age music, while dozens of camera crews from all over the country looked on. Molly had sought refuge from a dog in the wall 14 days before.
Workers could hear Molly meowing, but were unable to lure her out.
Her owner says Molly’s first meal after “captivity” was roasted pork, and sardines in oil and water.
No word on how much money was spent on Molly’s rescue.
In other animal news, on the same day Molly was pulled free, Hedda the turkey was also set free.
City officials released the wild turkey into Morningside Park Friday evening. The turkey, named Hedda Gobbler in a pun on the Ibsen character Hedda Gabler, was caught Wednesday roaming the grounds of an apartment complex in East Harlem.
Parks officials say a wild turkey had been seen in the park earlier this spring, but had disappeared.
Though they’re not sure if Hedda Gobbler is the same turkey, they say they’re glad to provide a safe home.