“We need them”: return to freedom for the birds cared for by the Goupil association

Les oiseaux ont été présentés par les membres de l'association. MIDI LIBRE – EBG

This Wednesday, July 28, pigeons, falcons and owls flew away from the forecourt of the Hermitage. They were released after treatment in the association's clinic. 

"These are birds that are afraid of humans, wild animals",explains Marie-Pierre, one of the volunteers of the Hérault association Goupil. At the foot of the Hermitage, on the forecourt overlooking the Cévennes capital, the association gathered a small crowd of curious onlookers this Wednesday, August 28, who came to watch the traditional bird release. Since 4 p.m., various stands and workshops, including a book drop, have enlivened the space, including the chapel courtyard, which was opened for the occasion.

The pigeons were the first to fly away. MIDI LIBRE – EBG

Raising awareness of the wild

Throughout the year, “29 full-time equivalents” at Goupil, they work to collect injured wild animals and then treat them within the walls of a clinic set up in Laroque. After months of convalescence, some of the birds are finally released, in front of the public. "It is to make you aware of the importance of these animals that they are released here, reminds Marie-Pierre. We need them!”.

The members of the association encouraged people to call on them. MIDI LIBRE – EBG

First, two pigeons are taken out of the cardboard boxes, before being presented up close to the spectators. “For some, this is their first flight to freedom”. The birds hurry to beat their wings towards the slag heap. Then it is the turn of falcons, small in size, to be released. More aggressive, these animals attract the attention of the youngest, also worrying this chicken farmer. To release owls, however, you have to wait until nightfall, so that the nocturnal animal can return to its natural space without being disturbed.