Nestled within the walls of the National University of Colombia lies a treasure trove of avian diversity—a collection of over 44,000 stuffed birds meticulously preserved for science and posterity. However, this invaluable repository of Colombia’s avian wealth faces an uncertain future, imperiled by inadequate funding and deteriorating infrastructure.
In a dimly lit room, biologist Andres Cuervo delicately tends to a vibrant array of bird specimens, from majestic condors to diminutive hummingbirds. Yet, rather than a state-of-the-art facility, these avian treasures are housed in metal pull-out drawers within a dilapidated public building, vulnerable to the elements.
Earlier this year, a torrential downpour threatened the collection, as water cascaded onto the cabinets, prompting a frantic effort to salvage the irreplaceable specimens. “We got out the buckets, the plastic anything to protect the collection,” recounted Cuervo’s colleague, Gary Stiles, an esteemed ornithologist.
Despite Colombia’s status as “the country of birds,” boasting an astonishing diversity of approximately 2,000 species, the ornithological collection at the National University stands at a precarious juncture. “It is ironic that with the most diverse avifauna (on the planet) we have one of the most endangered collections,” remarked Stiles, highlighting the disparity between natural wealth and institutional resources.
The plight of the collection mirrors the broader challenges facing Colombia’s public universities, grappling with financial constraints and aging infrastructure. Successive funding cuts have left institutions grappling with a significant shortfall, jeopardizing essential scientific endeavors.
The birds within the collection serve as more than mere specimens—they embody Colombia’s geographical history, representing a rich tapestry of avian life spanning over a century. Each meticulously labeled specimen offers a window into Colombia’s natural heritage, underscoring the collection’s irreplaceable value.
As Cuervo meticulously tends to his avian charges, he remains acutely aware of the collection’s vulnerability. “I go home every day thinking about this collection… the accumulation of small incidents can lead to something quite serious,” he reflects, echoing the concerns of many custodians of Colombia’s scientific legacy.
Despite the challenges, Cuervo and his colleagues remain steadfast in their commitment to preserving Colombia’s avian heritage. Yet, as funding woes persist and infrastructure deteriorates, the fate of this priceless collection hangs in the balance—a poignant reminder of the fragility of scientific endeavor amidst economic adversity.
