Farewell to New York’s 21-foot 'dinosaur pigeon' as High Line celebrates viral sculpture’s final bow

The towering aluminium pigeon by Iván Argote has spent the past 18 months captivating visitors along the High Line on Manhattan’s west side. Playful yet imposing, the sculpture quickly became a viral sensation - an icon that drew crowds eager to snap photos with the larger-than-life bird.

Now, the 21-foot "dinosaur pigeon” is preparing for its final blow.

Scheduled for removal in early April 2026, the installation is concluding its planned run as part of the High Line’s rotating public art programme, which introduces a new large-scale commission every 18 months. As the fourth piece in this ongoing series, the pigeon leaves behind a legacy that is both humorous and oddly heartfealt.

Its replacement, The Light That Shines Through The Universe by Tuan Andrew Nguyen, is scheduled to be unveiled in spring of 2026.

The event embraced the pigeon’s quirky charm with DJ sets, themed bingo and trivia, family workshops, and dedicated photo spots. Many enthusiastic fans dressed as pigeons themselves, showing their affection for the installation.

In a city like New York, pigeons are more than just ordinary creatures. They are symbols of resilience, adaptability, and urban survival. Often seen as mascots of the city, their grit mirrors the spirit of New Yorkers themselves.