Torrevieja’s Avian Dilemma: 700 Chickens Take Over the Streets
In Torrevieja, a coastal city in Alicante, around 700 free-roaming chickens have become a peculiar but increasingly problematic urban presence. The situation began in 2014 when just 40 chickens were abandoned in Las Naciones park. Since then, favorable Mediterranean conditions and local residents feeding them have allowed the flock to multiply.
Despite the City Council’s attempts to remove them by contracting a capture operation, the company—Ecoplanín—reneged on the contract, citing an unexpected obligation: the birds must be transported to a recognized animal shelter under Spanish animal protection law. The company failed to identify such a facility capable of taking in that many chickens.
With no alternative currently available, the chickens remain, eliciting mixed reactions. Some residents complain about the mess, noise, and traffic disruptions caused by crossing chickens. Others view them as charming elements of daily life — even likening them to a local mascot.
🐔 FAQ: Torrevieja Free-Roaming Chickens
Q1: Why are there so many free-roaming chickens in Torrevieja?
A1: The flock started with only 40 chickens abandoned in Las Naciones park in 2014. Favorable Mediterranean climate and feeding by locals allowed the population to grow to approximately 700 birds by 2025.
Q2: Has the city tried to remove them?
A2: Yes, the Torrevieja City Council contracted a company (Ecoplanín) to capture them. However, the company canceled because Spanish animal protection law requires a certified shelter for relocation, which was not available.
Q3: Are the chickens causing problems?
A3: Opinions are mixed. Some residents complain about traffic disruptions, noise, and mess. Others consider the chickens a quirky local attraction and a tourist curiosity.
Q4: What is the city planning to do next?
A4: Currently, no solution has been implemented. The city is seeking alternatives that comply with animal protection regulations.
Q5: Can tourists safely see or photograph the chickens?
A5: Yes, tourists can observe and photograph them safely, but they should respect local traffic rules and avoid feeding them to prevent further population growth.
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