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The number of sightings of feral boar and pig crossbreeds is increasing.
Credit: fuengirolasequeja
Malaga will take immediate measures to control wild boars and eradicate genetically modified feral pigs in the wild.
Cross-bred boars are a common sight along the Costa del Sol. They are giving birth in much greater numbers than the natural boars. Their young don’t recognize the mountains as their home, having only lived in the lower urban areas. They are a danger for road traffic and domestic animals, such as dogs. It is also known that they carry virus which could be passed on to humans.
The new plan gives hunters and non-hunting owners the right tools to tackle population imbalances as well as reduce the density of this species and the damage it causes. The plan for the 2025/2026 hunt season allows the unlimited culling wild boars (male and female) and feral pigs. However, priority is given to the older and more mature females. The methods that are allowed vary according to where they occur. On official hunting grounds, all methods of hunting are permitted, including stand and stalking. These techniques can be used in the regular hunting season and extended periods outside the hunting season.
Malaga will have less restrictions on hunting wild boar in 2025
Hunters can also use scent attractants that are non-polluting, place small amounts (between 40-75 metres away from a stand) of plant-based feed or food up to three days prior to a hunt and use night vision or thermal optics. These measures expand the capture period in both hunting and no-hunting areas.
In urban areas, and in rural areas that are developed under municipal jurisdictions, councils should use cages to catch animals. Animals captured in cages must be put down, except for cases where an exception or specific authorisation has been granted. Live captures may be conducted throughout the hunting season to ensure compliance with animal welfare laws and health regulations.
The emergency plan highlights the urgency of reducing the wild boar and pig population alarmingly to reduce their impact on Malaga’s ecosystems, agricultural production, and public security.
