A mass die-off of storks has been recorded in the southern part of Madrid, in the Getafe area. Hundreds of dead birds were found along the banks of the Manzanares River, near Perales del Río and La Marañosa. Local authorities have launched an urgent investigation into the cause, not ruling out the possibility of an avian flu outbreak.
The alert about an unusually high number of dead storks came from the municipality of Getafe. Police officers, while patrolling the area, noticed numerous bodies floating in the water. This triggered an immediate response from city and regional authorities, who began urgent inspections and sample collection for laboratory analysis.
Madrid authorities have confirmed that initial tests have already been carried out, revealing the presence of a low-pathogenic avian influenza virus. However, given the scale of the deaths, experts have initiated additional testing to rule out a more dangerous form of the disease. Final results are expected from the Central Veterinary Laboratory in Algete.
Restrictions and measures
While specialists await confirmation of the diagnosis, strict preventive measures have been implemented in the region. The breeding of ducks, geese, and other waterfowl in open areas has been banned. Restrictions on farm visits and water source controls have also been put in place to prevent possible spread of the infection.
Madrid forest service workers and firefighters are collecting and disposing of dead birds. They use special protective suits, masks, and goggles to minimize the risk of infection. All collected carcasses are sent to specialized facilities for sanitary destruction.
Firefighters emphasize that such operations are considered biologically hazardous, so only trained specialists are involved. Authorities have also increased environmental monitoring and are keeping a closer watch on both wild and domestic birds in the area.
Risks to humans
According to regional government officials, the likelihood of the virus being transmitted to humans is extremely low. The main route of infection is through contact with biological fluids from infected birds. There have been no recorded cases in Europe of the virus being transmitted to humans through casual contact or through food products derived from birds.
Nevertheless, local residents are advised to avoid places where mass bird deaths have occurred and to stay away from water bodies where dead storks have been found. If the virus is confirmed to be highly pathogenic, authorities promise to intensify information campaigns and expand the sanitary control area.
If the situation worsens, information will be provided to the national veterinary oversight system, as well as to local governments and environmental protection services. Special attention is being given to informing farmers and poultry farm owners about the necessary precautionary measures.
Parallels with Other Regions
Cases of avian flu have also been reported in other regions of Spain in recent months. In Andalucía, for example, similar outbreaks led to the closure of parks and the culling of thousands of domestic birds. Authorities emphasize that the situation in Madrid is under control but requires constant monitoring.
Outbreaks among wild birds can pose a threat to agriculture, especially to farms with chickens, ducks, and geese. That is why regional services are working closely with the Ministry of Agriculture and veterinary laboratories.
If a dangerous strain of the virus is confirmed, additional restrictions on bird movement will be imposed and stricter sanitary measures will be enforced on farms. Authorities urge the public to remain calm and to follow official recommendations.
If you didn’t know, Getafe is one of Madrid’s largest suburbs, renowned for its natural areas and diverse birdlife. In recent years, several biodiversity conservation and water protection programs have been actively implemented here. Local authorities pay special attention to environmental and safety issues, especially during bird migration seasons. RUSSPAIN.COM regularly monitors the situation in the region and provides updates on important changes for residents and visitors to the capital.
