Santa Cruz de Tenerife Launches Pest Control Operation to Remove Stray Poultry Amid Neighborhood Tensions
Santa Cruz de Tenerife has launched a pest control operation to remove stray poultry from urban streets amid community tensions and public opposition to the measures.
The City Council of Santa Cruz de Tenerife has launched a pest control operation to remove stray poultry from urban streets following growing tensions among residents. The issue, which is particularly prominent in the Ofra district, has also affected neighborhoods like García Escámez, Somosierra, and Valleseco.
The presence of these birds has deeply divided local communities. While many residents are calling for their removal due to noise and hygiene concerns, others are actively opposing the measures. This conflict has made the job difficult for municipal workers, who have reportedly faced harassment and intimidation while trying to capture the animals.
District councilor Santiago Díaz-Mejías explained that the birds remain in these areas largely because people continue to feed them. This practice violates municipal ordinances, which strictly prohibit feeding animals in public spaces to prevent them from settling in urban areas.
Carlos Tarife, head of Public Services, confirmed that capture operations are ongoing but noted that a quick resolution is difficult. Between the technical challenges of catching the birds and the interference from residents who oppose the removals, the city is struggling to balance public health regulations with a lack of neighborhood consensus.