White Peacock Albert: Symbol of Resilience in a Wildfire-Scorched Town

In Boulder Creek, where the CZU wildfire left its mark in 2020, a white peacock named Albert emerged as a symbol of hope and strength. When the flames forced residents to evacuate, Albert could be seen strutting through the smoky streets, offering a sense of comfort in a time of crisis.

Residents turned to social media for updates during the chaotic evacuation, and a photo of Albert shared by Ashley Ryder quickly captured everyone’s attention. The image of the majestic peacock walking along the sidewalk, his long tail feathers trailing behind, resonated with the community. People shared sightings of Albert, celebrated his resilience, and even created art inspired by him.

Albert was more than just a symbol of hope during difficult times; he was a beloved member of the community. He lived alone in a redwood tree, participated in the community’s nightly howls during the lockdown, and served as a natural alarm clock during the summer mating season.

Unfortunately, Albert’s life came to a tragic end on Nov. 23 when he was attacked and killed by a mountain lion. The community mourns the loss of this iconic peacock, who had become a fixture in Boulder Creek for over two decades.

While Albert’s age and origin remain a mystery, his impact on the community is undeniable. He embodied the spirit of Boulder Creek and brought people together during challenging times. Whether he was a unicorn stuck in a peacock’s body, a survivor of the CZU wildfire, or simply a beautiful bird living among humans, Albert will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Residents, like the bartender Jessica Daniel, who fondly recalled her encounters with Albert, share stories of the peacock’s bold and sassy demeanor. Despite the uncertainty surrounding his life and history, one thing is clear: Albert brought a sense of unity and resilience to Boulder Creek, leaving a lasting impression on all who crossed his path.