The farming sector is already under pressure from poor harvests, water shortages, low prices, rising imports, and higher costs. An extra challenge adds to the strain: wildlife damage. In Alicante province, wild boars, wildfowl, mouflons, mountain goats, and rabbits are inflicting losses approaching 12 million euros annually on crops, a figure farmers report with growing frustration, seeking support from authorities. The Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development, Climate Emergency and Ecological Transition is exploring measures to encourage hunting and curb the populations of these species that lack natural predators. This effort aligns with regional goals to protect agricultural livelihoods and ecosystems while managing wildlife responsibly.
Those living closest to woodlands bear the heaviest toll, yet virtually every crop feels wildlife pressure. AASAJA, the agrarian association, reports that total damage across the Valencian Community runs around 35 million euros per year, with Alicante accounting for roughly one third. The impact goes beyond crops, extending to field infrastructure and irrigation systems that suffer animal damage.
One farmer with a direct view of the issue is José Vicente Andreu, president of Asaja Alicante. His almond and citrus farm in Torremendo sits near the Pedrera reservoir, an area frequented by wild boars. In his experience, the damage targets drip irrigation lines, which have needed replacement twice due to animal bites. “If we’re talking about 12 hectares, I’ve already spent more than 10,000 euros replacing irrigation components,” he notes, adding that even newer installations struggle to withstand incursions.
Andreu points out that in Vega Baja and La Murada, boars also target fruit on lower branches, compounding the crisis as residents struggle with little external assistance. He describes hunting raids as the only feasible response so far, but these efforts require specialists in big game and remain insufficient as wildlife numbers climb.
Rabbits also hit table grapes, a reality acknowledged by Pepe Bernabéu, head of the Vinalopó Protected Designation of Origin, who highlights damage in towns like Monforte and Agost. He stresses that abandoned fields invite rabbits to roam, grazing on vine shoots and fruit alike.
Pedro Rubira, a grape grower in Novelda, notes that losses in some zones can reach 25 percent of production. “Insurance covers damage only if it exceeds 20 percent of the total harvest, and battling this issue is tough because current rabbit breeds crossbreed and reproduce rapidly,” he explains.
Cereals are also in the crosshairs of wildlife. In addition to rabbits, boars, mountain goats, herring sheep and wild sheep are blamed for havoc in the more mountainous districts such as l’Alcoià and El Comtat. Alcoy producer Ricardo Ferri notes that the lack of natural predators is worsened by artificial introductions of game species. “Years ago, hunting reserves were popular but later neglected, letting animals escape. Now they roam freely in the hills and fields, a plague despite raids,” he says.
The consequence is severe damage to wheat, barley, and especially sunflowers, at times making cultivation untenable. Ferri adds that insurance is limited and does not offer relief for these damages, leaving farmers without viable means to continue agricultural activity.
hunters
Hunters step in when farmers report problems, yet many feel abandoned by the authorities who they say fail to support hunting and exhibit ideological bias. Oscar Corbí, a representative of Alicante’s Hunting Federation, warns of a sharp rise in the wild boar population and the resulting road accidents. “Hunters are reaching the limit. More and more is asked of us, but there are no incentives to ease the situation. The government must set aside ideological concerns and back hunting,” he argues.
Wild boar and arrui control campaign in the Valencian Community
There is some movement that could address the demand. Regional Agriculture Minister Roger Llanes has announced a budget item intended to subsidize hunters. “Our aim,” Llanes says, “is to promote targeted plans to reduce species density by financially supporting predator-friendly measures. The framework is still being shaped, and we are actively working on it.”
Llanes does not rule out providing compensation to farmers under certain circumstances. He emphasizes that population control is the priority for now and that incentives for hunters will be assessed for their effectiveness.
Bee-eaters and Asian hornets threaten hives
The wildlife challenge extends beyond crops. Bee-eaters, a small, colorful bird, prey on bees and other insects, causing variable losses for beekeepers depending on hive location and season. The Asian hornet, an aggressive invader, is present in parts of the Iberian Peninsula and poses a real risk to hives and apiaries. Although it has not yet been detected in the province, beekeepers call for preventive measures that allow immediate action should it appear. The honey sector already faces competition from cheaper imports and rising costs, complicating the financial picture for beekeepers.