The Cabildo of Lanzarote has been compelled to maintain a provisional closure of hunting activities in the municipality of Haría following the confirmation of a new case of poisoning in the northern region of the island on Wednesday.

The Environment Councillor, Samuel Martín, explained that in recent days, the department has intensified investigations into the findings of affected wildlife and domestic animals. This situation had already led to the closure of hunting in Haría on 8 August. According to Martín, the institution had considered lifting the suspension and allowing the resumption of hunting activities on Thursday, 21 August. However, a new case was reported on Wednesday, necessitating the extension of the precautionary measure.

“These incidents do not only involve poisoning affecting species related to hunting, but also result in fatal intoxications of domestic animals and severely impact the biodiversity of northern Lanzarote. Therefore, we are facing a problem that transcends hunting issues and also constitutes a public health matter,” cautioned the Councillor for Hunting.

Insular President, Oswaldo Betancort, emphasised the institution’s resolve to combat this illegal practice, stating, “We will not allow the safety of our residents or the natural wealth of Lanzarote to be threatened by such harmful acts. We will continue to deploy all technical and human resources at our disposal to eradicate the use of poison, protect our biodiversity, and ensure that hunting activities can be conducted safely and responsibly.”

Urgent Hunting Council Meeting and Call for Responsibility

The Cabildo of Lanzarote will urgently convene an extraordinary Insular Hunting Council meeting this Friday, 22 August, to assess the situation, strengthen preventive measures, and analyse the possibilities for recovering the season once current risks are mitigated.

The insular corporation reiterates its appeal to the hunting community of Lanzarote and La Graciosa to act responsibly and maintain heightened vigilance in natural environments, particularly in the areas of Máguez, Guinate, Gayo, and Ye.

Once the safety of wildlife, people, and domestic animals is assured, hunting activities will be resumed. The Cabildo is even considering the possibility of extending the hunting season for feathered species to compensate for lost time.

Finally, the institution expresses its gratitude to the Environment Agents of the Cabildo, along with members of Seprona, the Civil Guard, the canine unit from the Cabildo of Gran Canaria, and professionals from the Local Police of Haría for their efforts in this operation.