Lorraine Williamson
Authorities in Andalucia have shut down several city parks in Seville and Málaga following the discovery of more than a hundred dead birds. While the cause is not yet confirmed, concerns are growing that the deaths may be linked to an outbreak of avian influenza.
Sudden closures in Seville
Three of Seville’s public spaces—Tamarguillo, Miraflores, and the gardens of the Real Alcázar—were cordoned off this week after dozens of geese, ducks, and other waterfowl were found dead. At Tamarguillo alone, 71 geese were reported, while Miraflores recorded further losses, including around 20 carcasses near its environmental education centre.
The closure of the Real Alcázar gardens has forced the cancellation of Las noches de los jardines del Alcázar, a long-running summer cultural programme that draws thousands of visitors each year. City officials have urged residents to avoid the affected areas until investigations are complete.
Málaga also affected
In Málaga, the Huelin Park was shut as a precaution after around 20 dead birds were discovered in its ponds. Local environmental and neighbourhood groups, numbering 13 in total, have lodged a formal complaint with the public prosecutor, demanding a full inquiry. They argue that chronic neglect of water quality in the park’s ponds may be contributing to bird deaths, pointing to stagnant, algae-covered pools and a history of sick or dying ducks, pigeons, and gulls.
Health and safety concerns
Twenty-five municipal workers who came into contact with the birds in Seville are being monitored by Andalucia’s health service. None have shown symptoms, and experts stress that the risk to humans remains low. Even so, authorities have placed the workers under precautionary observation.
No confirmed outbreak yet
Public Health Director Manuel Fernández cautioned against drawing premature conclusions. He noted that toxins, heavy metals, or bacterial infections could also explain the deaths. “We must wait for veterinary analyses before attributing this to bird flu,” he said, adding that more suspected cases may surface in the coming days.
Tourism impact
The closure of the Real Alcázar, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Spain’s most visited landmarks, highlights the wider consequences for tourism. With cultural events suspended and uncertainty surrounding the parks’ reopening, Seville and Málaga face the challenge of balancing public health, environmental management, and the economic importance of their historic attractions.
Source: El País