Streetfilms: The Search for the Zozo
As New York history buffs can tell you, until the early part of the 20th century, the city was prime habitat for Zozos -- large, furry, innocent
purple creatures that freely roamed the streets, mingling with people and enjoying the public realm.
But after the advent of the automobile their numbers slowly dwindled. By the 1930s, sightings became rare and they were thought to have gone
extinct.
3:37 PM EDT on April 30, 2009
Clarence Eckerson Jr. is the Director of Video Production for NYCSR's StreetFilms and producer of bikeTV. He loves the color purple, chocolate chip cookies, and enjoys walking, biking, and taking transit. He has never owned a driver's license.
Read More:
More from Streetsblog New York City
Grubhub ‘Outsourced’ Delivery Work To Skirt City Minimum Wage, Docs Show
Internal documents show that Grubhub, a delivery app owned by Wonder, subcontracted labor to lower paid workers to save money.
March 31, 2026
March (Parking) Madness 2026: Like A Rock Edition
This year's competition journeys to Staten Island, the ultimate Copland. But, surprise, surprise, it wasn't so bad.
March 31, 2026
RIDE-ALONG: A Night On The Road With A Relay Delivery Worker
Delivery workers are among the hardest-working, worst-paid, most-endangered jobbers in town. We rode with one to give you an idea.
March 31, 2026
‘Game-Changer’: Non-Profit Throws Financial Lifeline to Open Streets Program
The Citizens Committee for New York City will provide volunteer groups with an immediate lifeline before the start of the season.
March 31, 2026
Tuesday’s Headlines: ‘A Man, A Lander, A Plan Transit’ Edition
The former comptroller unveils his idea for transit if he gets elected to Congress. Plus other news.
March 31, 2026
Comments Are Temporarily Disabled
Streetsblog is in the process of migrating our commenting system. During this transition, commenting is temporarily unavailable.
Once the migration is complete, you will be able to log back in and will have full access to your comment history. We appreciate your patience and look forward to having you back in the conversation soon.