Description

A small research center near the Donana National Park is breeding threatened bird species and are a safe have for migrating birds.

Transcript

Safe Haven for Migrating Birds in Andalucía, Spain Correspondent: A few miles away from Donana’s boundaries. There is a small nature reserve and research center trying to do its best to turn the tide of bad news. Migrating birds get a little respite in this small reserve just outside the park. A couple of committed biologists set up this facility to provide a recuperation and breeding center for endangered species. They’ve even managed to breed some of the rarest birds of Europe but what is also remarkable is that this conservation center is privately owned. A lot of hardship proceeds from a small entrance fee and a few government grants have enabled – Rodrigeuz and his wife to carry out a highly successful breeding program at their facility. Mr. Rodriguez: In this cage we keep some of the species that are difficult to see in the wild. It’s one of great benefit to school children to come here to get a closer look at them. Correspondent: Their knowledge of local species means that they are now the sole center for treating sick birds bound in Donana. Placido suspects this duck is suffering from botulism a deadly bacteria that can affect birds when water temperatures rise. He has seen a steady increase in bird suffering from this disease. Serrum is the fastest way to revive them. What they suffer is a critical high degree of dehydration. Mr. Rodriguez: I don’t believe it’s moral that every year there is a serious number of birds dying and nobody is investigating the real causes of this abnormality in order to find solution. Correspondent: In 1986 thousands of birds died after a serious outbreak of botulism. In spite of official opinion to the – Placido remains convinced that the underlying reason for this level of infection is the increasing concentration of pesticides in the waters of Donana, the pride of Donana is symbolic to much of Spain. Environmental legislation is in place but applying it seems to be a problem. There is reason for hope the actions of committed individuals may prove an inspiration for others to follow.