The Marina Alta region of Alicante province is facing ongoing issues caused by an increasing population of wild boars. These animals damage crops and significantly impact local biodiversity.
In recent weeks, sightings of wild boars have surged in and around the municipality of Jávea. A growing number of the animals have been seen scavenging from rubbish bins.
Residents report problems in Costa Blanca
In the Costa Nova urbanisation of the Costa Blanca, residents frequently encounter wild boars rummaging through bins. The animals pull out rubbish bags with their teeth, scatter the contents across the ground, and consume leftover food. While reports of this behaviour have risen recently, such incidents have been common in Costa Nova for months, particularly during summer.
Why the wild boar population is growing
The growing wild boar population is attributed to several factors. The expansion of urban areas in Alicante has reduced the animals’ natural habitat. Additionally, frequent forest fires in the region have diminished vegetation, further limiting their food sources. Climate variations and changes in land use, such as a shift away from traditional farming practices, also disrupt the natural environment, leaving boars with fewer resources.
Defensa Animal, a Spanish animal protection organisation, highlights that the animals are forced to search for food in urban areas due to shrinking rural landscapes. Reduced hunting pressure in certain areas has also allowed wild boar populations to grow unchecked, amplifying the problem. Combined, these factors are pushing wild boars closer to human settlements in search of food and shelter.
The risks of increased wild boar activity
Wild boars pose more than just environmental challenges. They damage agricultural land, create hazards for motorists, and can spread diseases. Recognising these risks, the mayors of Marina Alta held a meeting in Jávea several months ago to discuss potential solutions.
Exploring solutions to the issue
One proposed solution involves reducing the wild boar population. However, biologists have cautioned against drastic measures such as culling without fully understanding the root causes of the problem. They advocate for a more measured approach to address the underlying factors driving wild boars into urban areas.
The challenges posed by wild boars in Alicante highlight the need for a balanced response that considers both environmental and community concerns.