Latest news and stories about wildlife protection in Portugal for expats and residents.
The four suspects were caught in the act for crimes against wildlife preservation. The men were allegedly hunting in protected areas. Four weapons were also seized.
Authorities have initiated 29 legal proceedings in Portugal regarding the illegal destruction of swallow nests.
Requests to the Institute for Nature Conservation and Forests (ICNF) for the removal of swallow nests increased between 2024 and 2025, as did the permits issued, with 680 out of the 745 requests submitted over these two years being approved.
In the last three years, of the 29 proceedings identified by the ICNF, nine were in the central region of the country, eight in the Alentejo, seven in the Algarve, one in the northern region, and four in the Lisbon and Tagus Valley region.
The Public Prosecutor's Office has cleared the suspects involved in the slaughter of hundreds of animals at the Torre Bela estate in Azambuja. The investigation was archived due to a lack of evidence of crimes against nature.
The law has prohibited the destruction of nests since 1999, but there are exceptions for public health, safety, or building renovation. The ICNF suggests alternatives to avoid removal.
The ICNF has requested that the Trancoso City Council, as the entity responsible for the construction work, “suspend the works during the species' nesting period.”
Associations defend the continued protection of the Iberian wolf, but warn of delays in compensation payments by the State. Attacks threaten livestock farming and native species.
Works are taking place during the species' breeding season, which several associations point out is prohibited by law.
Patrols by the GNR in the Planalto Mirandês aim to prevent environmental crimes, safeguard ecosystems and protect domestic animals and wildlife.
