Question: What if I told you the Cercle Spix has a connection to a nearly extinct blue parrot? It might sound like a far-fetched tale. But the Cercle Spix at UCLouvain holds a unique story.
The Cercle Spix is the student circle for dentistry students. It was founded in 1974. It is named after the “Spix”. This is an anatomical landmark used in dental anesthesia. Today, the Cercle Spix has about 300 members. It is located on Place Martin V on the Alma campus. You will find it next to the Mémé and Pharma circles.
But what about the parrot? Well, Johann Baptist von Spix collected a specimen of a small blue macaw in Brazil in 1819. This bird was later named Spix’s macaw. The Spix’s macaw is now extinct in the wild. It exists only because of conservation efforts.
So, while the Cercle Spix focuses on dental studies and student life its name carries a connection to a rare bird. The Cercle Spix organizes regular events. These events include Tuesday night parties. They also host larger events. These include the Grand Bal des Dentistes. They also organize a special beer week. Ski trips and the Dental Games are also part of their program. The Spix circle aims to ensure student development. It also promotes camaraderie and conviviality on campus.
Imagine students at the Cercle Spix. They are studying hard to become dentists. Yet, their circle’s name reminds them of a bird. This bird faced extinction due to habitat loss. It also suffered from the illegal wildlife trade.
The story of the Spix’s macaw is a lesson. It teaches about the importance of conservation. It reminds us of the impact humans can have on the natural world. As students gather at the Cercle Spix they might reflect on this connection. They might consider their role in a larger world.
The Cercle Spix isn’t just a place for dental students. It’s a place with a story. This story links them to a rare bird. It also links them to broader issues of conservation. So next time you pass the Cercle Spix remember the little blue macaw. Remember the importance of protecting our planet’s biodiversity. It’s a connection that adds a unique dimension to this student circle. It links education with environmental awareness.