Grecia
Toucan Grecia, which lost part of its peak after a brutal aggression in Alajuela, went from misfortune to world success in 2 years.
In 2015, the news of its aggression was spread around the world: a female toucan was attacked with a stick, to the point that they had to amputate part of it.
Two years later, the documentary that tells Grecia’s sad story and the successful reconstruction of its peak using 3D technology, won a prestigious prize called Genesis, from the Human Society of the United States.
According to Aleida Méndez, head of Rescate Animal Center at Zooave, the prize for this documentary should fill Costa Ricans with pride.
Despite the sad and brutal story behind Grecia’s case, there is also a clear sign that violent acts against animals are condemned in Costa Rica.
If we help each other, we can save an animal. We do not always have to use euthanasia,
Méndez said.
The audiovisual material, aired by Animal Planet in 170 countries, was directed by Salvadoran filmmaker Paula Heredia.
Currently, Grecia is in Rescate Animal Center, in Alajuela, in a cage of 60 square meters and 9 meters high. The bird is closely monitored and its behavior is completely normal.
Now, “toucan” means compassion, professionalism, love and struggle for animal welfare in Costa Rica.