unprecedented Surge of Free-Roaming Chickens Alarms Torrevieja Residents
Local Authorities Scramble as Feral Birds Multiply Across the City
Residents of Torrevieja have been surprised-and increasingly concerned-by the sudden rise of free-roaming chickens wandering the city’s streets, parks, and car parks. what started as a curiosity has grown into a citywide dilemma, with dozens of chickens now seen in several neighborhoods and no immediate solution in sight.
Mixed Feelings as Chickens Become a Citywide Phenomenon
Locals first reported brief sightings of chickens in residential areas several weeks ago, often regarding them with amusement or treating them as an entertaining spectacle for children. However, as the population has multiplied, public sentiment has shifted.Some residents have dubbed the chickens ”a new symbol for the city,” especially for the youngest, who find them harmless and captivating.
Others are voicing serious concerns. With chickens now crossing major roads and gathering in public areas, road safety worries have become more pronounced. Additionally, there are escalating fears about public health: a local veterinarian recently warned in a national news report that the birds could carry diseases transmissible to other animals or possibly to humans. “Malnutrition and exposure to the elements could make these chickens vulnerable and possibly vectors for disease,” the veterinarian explained.
City Council Takes Emergency Measures-But Hits a Setback
In response to mounting resident complaints,the Torrevieja City Council contracted a private animal control company to humanely capture and relocate the birds.However, this initial contract collapsed after the company reportedly withdrew, citing an underestimation of the scale of the problem.
The abrupt departure of the control company has left municipal authorities seeking an alternative contractor capable of dealing with the issue. In the interim, city officials have emphasized their commitment to a solution that balances animal welfare (bienestar animal) with public safety.
Sightings Continue as the City Seeks an Answer
With the city yet to find a new, effective solution, residents continue to document daily encounters with chickens on social media-often showing birds roosting in car parks, foraging in parks and playgrounds, and venturing onto busy roads. Local officials are reportedly in talks with new animal organizations to take over the task of capture and relocation.
While some residents appreciate the novelty and even advocate for their permanent presence,others have urged swift action to prevent traffic accidents and address potential health concerns.
“We don’t want to harm them; but letting them roam is not safe for the birds or for local people,” commented one resident.
As this unique situation continues to evolve, it has become a talking point throughout Torrevieja. The city council insists on a “humane and effective” strategy to resolve the challenge and restore order for both residents and unexpected avian visitors.
sources
- Euro Weekly News: Free-roaming chicken population in Torrevieja is multiplying quickly-what it could mean for the city
- Informativos Telecinco: Gallinas sueltas en Torrevieja: alarma entre los vecinos
- Diario Información: El Ayuntamiento busca solución a la plaga de gallinas en Torrevieja