Félix de Azara y la condición de naturalista

Abstract

Para centrar la figura de Félix de Azara se destaca la condición de naturalista ilustrado del s. XVIII frente a la del científico. Como militar a las órdenes de la Corona española realizó una misión en la América meridional. Una vez concluidos sus trabajos, hubo de permanecer allí durante trece años, tiempo que dedica Azara al estudio sistemático de la flora y la fauna del continente americano. Sin conocimientos previos, ni bibliografía que consultar, consigue describir 448 especies de aves además de una gran cantidad de cuadrúpedos. Su obra científica y su vida como naturalista son hoy un valioso legado que se debe preservar y dar a conocer.

In order to approach the figure of Félix de Azara we must differentiate between his condition as an illustrated naturalist of the 18th century and his condition as a scientist. He undertook a mission in South America as a soldier under the command of the Spanish Crown. When he had finished his work, he had to stay there for thirteen years, during which Azara devoted his time to the systematic study of the flora and fauna of the American continent. Although without previous knowledge or literature to consult, he described 448 species of birds as well as numerous quadrupeds. His scientific work and his life as a naturalist are a valuable legacy that we must preserve and publicize.