Cabildo warns of damage caused by free‑roaming pets in natural areas
Environment Department alerts to the rise of domestic animals in Corralejo Natural Park, jeopardising the integrity of the space and protected species.
The Environment Department of the Cabildo de Fuerteventura, headed by Carlos Rodríguez, has issued a warning about the harm that domestic animals can inflict on protected natural spaces.
Growing Presence of Uncontrolled Pets
Environmental surveillance services have reported a significant increase of free‑roaming domestic animals in the restricted‑use zones of the Corralejo Natural Park. Their presence threatens the integrity of the area and creates disturbances for protected wildlife.
Species at Risk
The park’s sandy zones host several vulnerable bird species, including:
- Canary houbara (Chlamydotis undulata fuertaventris) – endangered
- Great bustard (Otis tarda) – endangered
- Black‑winged pratincole (Glareola pratincola) – vulnerable
- Marsh turtle (Mauremys leprosa) – under special protection
“Human activity and some pets can alter their behaviour, leading to abandoned nests or the loss of chicks,” the department warned.
Legal Framework and Penalties
- The Park Management and Use Plan (PRUG) expressly prohibits the release of domestic animals, as it contradicts the park’s conservation objectives.
- Violations can incur fines ranging from €150 to €600 (Article 392 of Law 4/2017 on Land and Protected Natural Spaces of the Canary Islands).
- Additionally, Law 7/2023 (March 28) on the protection of animal rights and welfare forbids leaving animals loose or in conditions that cause damage in Protected Natural Spaces (Article 25).
Call for Civic Responsibility
The Environment Department urges residents and visitors to respect protected zones. While numerous areas on the island are designated for walking pets, the following must be observed:
- Canary Natural Protected Spaces Network sites
- Natura 2000 sites, including Special Protection Areas for Birds (ZEPA) and Special Conservation Areas (ZEC)
“Each visit to the park is an opportunity to respect and protect. Avoiding disturbances to flora and fauna is not merely complying with a rule; it is a commitment to Fuerteventura’s nature,” the department emphasized.
By combining enjoyment of the outdoors with responsible behaviour, visitors can help preserve the habitats and species that make Corralejo Natural Park a unique treasure of the island.