Canaries face an ecological problem: population growth dogs And cats wild threatens the biodiversity of the archipelago. faced with this problem the island government temporarily allowed them to be hunted. animals until it comes into effect Animal Welfare Law. The measure aims to protect native species and guarantee the preservation of the ecological balance in the region.

A circular was published by the Ministry of Ecological Transition, Combating Climate Change and Regional Planning. The order determining the hunting seasons for the 2023-2024 season in the Canary Islands. This precaution allows hunting of wild dogs, cats and ferrets, which are considered a threat to the local fauna. According to reports from naturalist organizations, these animals contributed to the extinction of native species such as the giant Canarian lizard and various endemic birds.

Until the Animal Protection Law comes into force, these animals were considered wild when released into the wild. However, as of September With the new legislation enacted, dogs, cats and ferrets will no longer be classified as wild even if they are feral.

It is important to note that work is being done on the creation of a “”.positive list of pets“, here all non-wild species will be included. The order establishes the hunting dates and special conditions of each species on each island and classifies wild animals as “small game”. The hunting season starts in August and it will be legal to hunt wild cats and dogs for about a month.. After this date, only animals that are not on the “positive list” will be considered wild.

This temporary measure aims to protect the native flora and fauna of the Canary Islands, preserve biodiversity and prevent the extinction of unique species in the archipelago. In addition, The enactment of the Animal Protection Law is expected to offer more comprehensive and sustainable solutions to the wildlife problem. in the region. Meanwhile, the public is encouraged to recognize the importance of responsible pet ownership and to cooperate to protect the Canary Islands’ natural environment.