Environmental Volunteers with "willingness to learn".

A student caresses a bird in the exhibition. PHOTO: Courtesy

The group of Environmental Volunteers of the University of Navarra organized a workshop of training at the Sturnus breeding center, the business started by the former student and PhD in Biology Luis Lezana.

The 40 participants in the activity -biologists, but also pharmacists, students of doctorate and employees of the academic center- visited the facilities of this center, where they were explained the work they carry out. Among them, the project in the Basilica del Pilar in Zaragoza, where they managed to stop pigeons from roosting and thus spoiling the architectural monument. In this sense, the specialists talked about the different species of birds of prey with which they work to repel pests, and allowed the volunteers to touch the birds or allow them to perch in their arms.

"In addition," completes Ana Villarroya, one of the coordinators of group,"Luis Lezana flew for us such impressive birds as the bald eagle, emblem of the USA; and explained to us how the bird breeding facilities work, as well as the programs of study on animal behavior that they develop with the University."

"The main reason for this visit is training, one of the main objectives of the environmental volunteer activities that we carry out. The choice of this place also responded to the communication skills of Luis Lezana, who also showed us how a scientist can contribute socially with such an innovative business as his", adds Ana Villarroya.

This activity, like all those promoted by group, is supported by Caja Rural de Navarra.