In 2026, Malaga will contract archers to manage the excess wild boars.

Malaga Council has awarded a €30,000 contract to manage the growing presence of wild boars and feral pigs in urban areas, saying that the risks to public safety, traffic, and property are on the rise. The deal was for one year with the option to extend it another year. Grupo SCAES-FAC The measures that have been implemented since September 20,24 are being built upon.

The initiative, which is being led by the Environmental Sustainability Department (DSE), focuses on districts, such as Este or Ciudad Jardin, in which animals are known to leave forested areas. Following confirmed cases of African Swine Fever in wild boars, the authorities are planning to reduce conflict between humans and wildlife. They will work closely with Junta de Andalucia (the regional government in Andalucia). The disease is not a direct threat to humans but it can be a danger to other animals and livestock farms. This could lead to mass slaughter.

The contract was signed after a declaration on December 5, declaring a temporary hunting crisis in Andalusia because of the damage and health risk caused by these animals. The contract allows for intensified control, which could include eradicating the population through different capture methods.

Installing additional watering holes and planting vegetation at the edges of the city will discourage animals from entering. Night patrols will be conducted, as well as thermal cameras that track herds and controlled feeding stations in coordination with the Environmental Health Surveillance Service.

Archers armed poisoned arrows and darts

In the event that deterrence fails to work, captures may be made using anaesthetic and/or bow-and-arrows. This method is endorsed by regional authorities on agriculture and sustainability. The operations will take place at night in order to reduce disruptions and risks to the public. Daytime interventions are possible if safe.

Officials in Malaga have reiterated their call for residents to not feed animals and properly dispose of waste bins. They warn that improper rubbish disposal attracts wildlife and drives them away from their natural habitat.

The service will start once the Junta has renewed the necessary authority for the control measures within the municipal boundary of Malaga.

The council hopes that by combining monitoring, prevention and targeted captures it can create an effective buffer zone in order to keep wild boars from urban areas.