Claudia Munera

Biologist/Consultant, Guatemala

Jul 23, 2009

1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?

I don't think it was a particular interaction, I prefer to talk about several...my mother is an animal and nature lover and then she influence in my personal perception about animals, I grew up with animals both in my house and in the family farms. Once as adult and as a biology student discovering the world of birds was very important for me.

2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood? How about now??

Yes, I had plenty in one of the farms where we used to lived when I was a child, I love a small patch of andean forest, and to lay in a water tank that was located in front of a mountain with pines (it wasn't native pines, but at that age I didn't knew about that).

3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?

Birds, and may especially owls and toucans. We had a small Tropical Screech Owl that fell from its nest and we take care of him...

4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?

Currently, habitat transformation due deforestation and contamination. Then in the future we will face the consequences as climate change, famines and lack of water.

5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?

Save water, reduce overcomsuption, walk instead of drive whenever is possible