Unique bird collection at risk

Cuervo showing embalmed birds at the scientific research laboratory of the National University of Colombia in Bogota.

UNDER a cracked and leaky ceiling, Andres Cuervo works on a colourful, dead hummingbird for the ornithological collection of the National University of Colombia, the country with more bird species than any other.

Condors, eagles and even extinct birds receive a “second life” at the table of the biologist, who preserves them for science and posterity.