extraordinary reproduction and multiplication of samples flamingos In the natural area of La Albufera in Valencia It threatens rice crops in the region and the sector, according to agricultural associations, which have demanded that governments take measures such as controlling the population of these birds.
This situation was highlighted by the Valencian Farmers Association (AVA-ASAJA), which warned that flocks of flamingos caused serious damage in recent years This increases the damage already caused by other species, such as ducks.
José Pascual Fortea, rice sector president of the Valencian Farmers’ Association (AVA-ASAJA), said in the spring flamingos “trampling newly planted fields” So severe that farmers not only lose these plants, but in many cases they do not replant because it is not worth it, because the harvested production at the time of harvest is so meager that it does not cover the costs of production.
Rice is in danger
“The situation is very worrying and standing by is not an option if we want to continue producing.” rice, a crop that contributes significantly to the maintenance of the natural park“He warns Pascual.
AVA-ASAJA demands that the administrations take action on the issue. flamingo population “reduced to reasonable levels” which aligns it with rice activity” or “establishes a line of compensation in an economic amount sufficient to cover the total damage to the crop.”
A “record” bird count has already been detected in autumn 2022 The La Albufera wetland is home to approximately 114,000 pairs of birds, including large numbers of flamingos, which experts attribute to the good condition of the water and the rice field, which also coincides with the degradation of other natural areas such as Doñana.
They also warned about the losses that the presence of flamingos in La Albufera could cause to crops.