In the scene of flora and fauna surrounding floriculture, it is easy to get carried away by the colors, shapes, and fragrances of the flowers that are present in every corner. But have you ever stopped to think about how these natural wonders not only harmonize spaces but also serve as a refuge for thousands of birds in Colombia? Asocolflores and Florverde shared everything about the second edition of 'The Birds of Flowers' and what the experience was like.
Preserving Colombia’s Birds by Promoting Sustainable Practices in Flower Plantations
This year, in August, a transformative project was carried out on the flower farms of the Bogota Savannah, a place known not only for its production of exceptional flowers but also for being home to rich biodiversity. The 'Birds of Flowers' study sought something beyond what people imagined—to understand how flower crops contribute to the conservation of birds, which find in these environments a safe refuge, full of life and possibilities. With a version of the project first launched back in 2010, the goal at the end of the day is still the same (and better!) which is to produce further knowledge tending to the preservation of the avifauna, stressing good practices in Colombian flower plantations.
Colombia is the country with the greatest diversity of birds in the world, with this statistic not just representing a number but a clear reflection of the natural wealth that surrounds the country. With almost 2,000 species of birds, this rich Latin American country is a role model of what it means to live in harmony with nature. Every flight of a bird, every song at dawn, is a reminder that we are hand in hand, responsible for this fragile balance between animals, nature, and humans.
A Project Dedicated to Foreseeing and Evaluating the Current State of Bird Populations in Different Flower Farms in Colombia
As mentioned previously, this outline not only assessed the number and variety of birds on flower farms but also looked at how certain sustainable practices have created ideal environments for birds to breed and thrive. In a world where climate change threatens so many species, seeing how flower crops can offer hope and a home is truly heartening.
Augusto Solano, CEO of Asocolflores, the Association of Colombian Flower Exporters shared:
"Birds are one of the most important species in ecosystem dynamics. They are fundamental for the biological control (natural) of pests, pollination (ornithophily), and seed dispersion (distribution). For many years, Colombian flower growers have been working on implementing environmental programs to protect the birdlife in their farms and the communities with floriculture activity. With this second edition of the project 'Birds of Flowers', a lot will be learned to advance in their knowledge and protection."
The project´s goal is to evaluate the current state of the bird population in different flower farms in the areas of Bogota's Savannah and Eastern Antioquia, generating space and the necessary materials for socialization and awareness around the subject of bird conservation.
The main actions to be developed are:
- Define the avifauna and its relationship with the different topsoils present in the flower farms
- Compare the information about the bird population about the weight and quantity of the data gathered in 2010
- Communicate to the stakeholders and the overall population the importance of conservation
Carlos Lopez, president of ABO, the Bogota Association of Ornithology said:
"This study is fundamental to understanding how sustainable flower growing practices in Colombia may contribute to the safeguarding of the birdlife, especially in a context where climate change represents a significant threat for so many species. With the data that we gather, we hope not only to update the existing knowledge, but also to inspire new conservation actions to protect our birds and, thus, our ecosystems."
Beauty and Conservation Meet
What moves people, (especially Colombians) the most about this study and initiative by Asocolflores and Florverde is the perfect synergy between flowers and birds. Flowers, which connect us with the beauty and expression of nature, also serve as a sanctuary for the birds that inhabit these spaces. Each flower bears witness to a story of preservation, a small contribution to the biodiversity that surrounds us.
There is immense pride to see how the industry Colombian's work in not only produces beauty but actively contributes to the protection of wildlife. The farms that participated in this study have shown that responsible and sustainable practices can create spaces where birds find shelter, food, and nesting opportunities. It is a circle where everyone wins: the flowers, the birds, and humans who love working with nature.
When visiting a flower farm, it's usually the surroundings, colors, and scents that catch people's attention. But thanks to studies like 'Birds of Flowers', everyone can start to appreciate the connection between flowers and nature.
So, the next time you enjoy a bouquet of flowers or visit a flower farm, remember that each variety tells a story, and every bird song is an echo of that same story, that of a country that works tirelessly to preserve its natural wealth.
To read the full study and project to further know about more technical and statistical information, head to Asocolflores' website.
