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:
Streetsblog has migrated to a new comment system. New commenters can register directly in the comments section of any article. Returning commenters: your previous comments and display name have been preserved, but you'll need to reclaim your account by clicking "Forgot your password?" on the sign-in form, entering your email, and following the verification link to set a new password — this is required because passwords could not be carried over during the migration. For questions, contact tips@streetsblog.org.
More from Streetsblog New York City
Knicks Watch Parties Are Back — Just Not Outside the Garden
Mayor Mamdani didn't overrule NYPD's shutdown of the massive watch parties outside Madison Square, but others will happen.
May 26, 2026
Tuesday’s Headlines: Knicks of Time Edition
Basketball itself has become an arena. Plus more news.
May 26, 2026
The Great Mirage: Amtrak’s Big Penn Station Reveal Sidesteps Who Will Pay For Renovations
The details of President Trump and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy's high-profile redevelopment of Penn Station remain enshrouded.
May 26, 2026
Mamdani and Menin Blame Each Other For Delays to Fix Outdoor Dining
Meanwhile, fewer than 1,200 restaurants currently have full approval for outdoor dining.
May 26, 2026
Amtrak Fails To Regain Metro-North Rail Access After Lawsuit
The two rail systems are still going at it.
May 26, 2026