The authorities of Catalonia have launched an emergency operation to capture wild boars in the Collserola natural park on the outskirts of Barcelona. The measures were prompted by the discovery of new dead animals, raising concerns about the potential spread of African swine fever. In recent days, eight more dead boars have been found in the area, bringing the total to fourteen in one week. All carcasses have been sent for laboratory analysis to determine the cause of death.
To prevent infected animals from moving to other areas, special traps, deterrents, and temporary barriers have been installed around the park’s perimeter. Authorities have urged Barcelona residents and visitors to strictly observe the ban on visiting Collserola, which is in effect all day. Violators face fines, and monitoring of park entrances has been significantly increased.
Security and control: park under heightened protection
Enforcing these restrictions has proven challenging: the park has more than a hundred main entrances and several hundred secondary access points, making a complete closure extremely difficult. Nevertheless, the area is now entirely off-limits for walks and recreation. Additional patrols from the Catalonian police (Mossos d’Esquadra), the Guardia Civil, and the forestry service (Agents Rurals) have been deployed. Special attention is being paid to a six-kilometer zone around the outbreak, where extra checkpoints and barriers have been set up.
All captured animals undergo mandatory disinfection before being transported to a specialized center for further examination. Authorities emphasize that the strictest biosecurity protocols are being followed to prevent the spread of the virus beyond the infected area.
Possible military involvement and impact on daily life
If the situation worsens, the operation may involve military personnel from a special wildlife control unit—a proposal that is already under consideration. A decision on deploying additional forces will be made after new test results are received. So far, all confirmed cases have been recorded in Cerdanyola del Vallès, and there are no plans to expand the quarantine zone.
Despite the proximity to the Bellaterra university campus and residential neighborhoods, authorities are not imposing restrictions on schools, businesses, or homes. All institutions are operating as usual, but residents have been advised to avoid visiting the park and nearby areas.
Exports at risk: economic impact on the region
Catalonia’s pork industry exports products worth around 3 billion euros annually. After the virus was detected in wild boars, exports to countries outside the European Union were automatically suspended. Resuming exports will require separate negotiations with each partner country. Authorities assure that all necessary measures are being taken to stabilize the situation and restore the confidence of international buyers.
Experts are currently continuing their investigation to determine the source of the infection. One theory is that the virus was brought in from other European countries where outbreaks of African swine fever have previously been reported. Final conclusions will be made after laboratory tests are completed.
