Wild Boars in Marbella Could Spread African Swine Flu, Warn Experts
The increasing presence of wild boars on the streets of Marbella could potentially lead to the spread of the deadly African swine flu across Spain, according to experts. The disease, which was eradicated from Spain in 1995, has seen recent outbreaks in other European countries. Currently, there is no vaccine available.
Impact on the Pork Industry
Yolanda Morales, a spokeswoman for PACMA, a political party focused on animal and wildlife protection in Spain, warned that a single outbreak on a Spanish farm could have devastating consequences for the pork industry. This could include the slaughter of thousands of pigs and the imposition of legal and trade restrictions.
Interaction with Humans
Activists have criticized the Junta de Andalucia following a surge in videos showing wild boars interacting with humans on the beaches and streets of the Costa del Sol. Until this year, the animals had not reached the beaches of Marbella in such numbers.
City Council’s Response
The City Council is developing recommendations to address the issue, although none have been published yet. The mayor of San Pedro de Alcantara, a town within Marbella, has urged tourists and locals not to feed the animals, emphasizing that they are not pets and can be dangerous.
Warnings for Animal Lovers
Animal lovers are advised to avoid the baby boars, as their mothers are very protective and can become aggressive and attack. This year, packs of boars have been seen on Torre la Sal beach in Cabanes, where they try to get close to sunbathers’ possessions.
Wild Boars in Residential Areas
Wild boars have long been seen on the streets of the Costa del Sol, usually at night and in residential areas. They are primarily in search of food, a behavior that some experts believe is encouraged by locals feeding the animals.
Effects of Climate Change
The effects of climate change have resulted in the inland areas where the boars live becoming drier and less abundant. This has forced them to seek food elsewhere, including areas with bins and garbage.
Boar Populations on the Rise
Dr. Joaquín Vicente Baños, a researcher at the Institute for Hunting Resources Research, explains that wild boar populations have recovered in recent decades and we are now seeing the effects. He added that the greatest food shortage for wild boars, especially in the Mediterranean area, is during the summer season.
Boars Bred in Captivity
PACMA added that many boars are bred in captivity by hunters across the country, causing their population numbers to increase. However, the lack of coordination between different regional governments on the issue means their true number is not known.
