Mijas Council warns against feeding wild boars in Costa del Sol.

To protect the public, residents are reminded not to feed wild boars. The local police received reports of people seen feeding wild boars, which is illegal.

Mijas Council reminds locals and tourists to the Costa del Sol to not feed wild boars on public property. The latest appeal was prompted by complaints from residents who complained about people providing food to wild boars in public spaces.

Feeding changes animal behaviour and brings them closer

The message from the council states that “Feeding alters their behaviour and brings closer and closer them to our streets”. While many consider offering scraps to be a harmless practice, experts warn against the serious consequences that can occur for pets, people and local environment.

Increased health and road risks with urban incursions

Wild boars may transmit disease to humans and domesticated animals. Traffic accidents are more likely to occur as wild boars become more common near roads. Animals can also damage gardens, parks, and urban furniture. Rummaging in bins causes a mess, unpleasant odours and increases the risk of rodents and rats.

The tragic incident in Estepona is a stark reminder

This appeal is in response to reports that were made last year about a wild boar pack attacking and eating alive an pregnant mare tied on a Finca in Estepona. These incidents show how dangerous these animals can be when they are drawn to human areas.

Hybrid animals reproduce faster and increase concerns

Mijas is home to hybrids between domestic pigs and wild boars. The animals reproduce at a much faster rate than the standard wild boars. This leads to a rapid population increase. The authorities consider that the rapid proliferation is a real risk for children, the elderly, pets, and vulnerable groups like the homeless. The groups often start breeding near the golf course boundaries before venturing further into urban zones every year.

Feeding animals is cruel, and it leads to future culls

Continued feeding of animals is cruel. It can encourage dependency and further overpopulation, which may require mass culling. Council officials emphasize that everyone is responsible for protecting the local environment.

Fines reach €750 for those who ignore the rules

Anyone caught feeding or leaving food for wild boars faces an immediate on-the-spot fine of €750. Mijas Council urges residents to follow the law and keep streets safe.