More than 4.000 exotic animals classified as invasive have been removed from the wild in the Community of Madrid throughout 2025, in a continued effort to protect the region's native flora and fauna. This massive intervention reflects how the presence of species introduced by humans has become one of the most serious environmental challenges for the regional government.
Regional authorities emphasize that the increase of these animals, both in rivers and reservoirs as well as in rural and peri-urban areasThis is closely linked to the exotic pet trade and irresponsible ownership. When these animals are released or escape, they can quickly establish themselves and disrupt Madrid's ecosystems.
More than 4.000 specimens removed to protect biodiversity
According to data provided by the regional government, In 2025, a total of 4.012 invasive exotic animals were removed from the wild.The objective is clear: to prevent the deterioration of ecosystems and reduce the pressure they exert on native species, with which they compete for food, shelter and space to reproduce.
The extraction work falls to the Wildlife Patrol and environmental techniciansThese teams take action on the ground when they detect high concentrations of these species or when their presence poses a clear threat to the ecological balance. Their work combines surveillance, monitoring, and rapid response to reports from citizens or other public services.
Once captured, All specimens are transferred to the Félix RodrÃguez de la Fuente Wildlife Recovery Center (CRAS), located in Tres Cantos. There, a team of Veterinarians and specialized personnel are responsible for their assessment, handling, and care., following the established protocols for each type of animal.
This device allows centralize the management of invasive alien fauna and to act in a coordinated manner, preventing the removed animals from returning to the natural environment and progressively reducing their impact on Madrid's biodiversity.
Most common species and their impact on rivers, reservoirs and countryside
The bulk of the withdrawals have been concentrated in aquatic species introduced into rivers, lakes and reservoirs of the Community of MadridThe capture of 1.773 specimens of parva, a species of fish that expands easily and can displace native fish fauna.
They have also been extracted 1.208 bleak and 418 sunfishFish that compete for the same food resources as native species and disrupt the food chains of aquatic ecosystems. These are in addition to 105 carpas, a very hardy fish that stirs up the bottom, muddies the water and modifies the habitat of other species.
In terrestrial environments and in areas near urban centers, the control devices have been removed numerous specimens of exotic vertebrates that had settled in parks, riverbanks, or agricultural areas. Among them are 253 American or Florida pond turtles, one of the most common turtles in the pet trade, which displaces other native turtle species.
Along with them, the following have been captured 118 Argentine parrotsVery noisy and adaptable birds that form large colonies, as well as 84 raccoonsknown for their ability to rummage through garbage, prey on bird nests, and transmit diseases. They have also been removed 61 Nile geese, an invasive water bird that competes for space and resources in wetlands and reservoirs.
Among the native reptiles affected by this unfair competition are 83 peninsular GalapagosThese native turtles, although part of the local fauna, are negatively impacted by the massive presence of exotic turtles. This forced coexistence can lead to habitat loss, food shortages, and changes in population dynamics.
Abandonments and releases: the origin of many of these animals
A significant portion of the collected specimens originate from the keeping exotic pets that end up being released when they are no longer manageable or interestingThis behavior, seemingly innocent to some owners, is one of the main drivers of the spread of invasive species.
Within this group, the Community of Madrid has identified 41 red-bellied turtles, 6 American minks y 6 Vietnamese pigsAll of these species have the potential to harm local flora and fauna. Once established, they can be very difficult to eradicate and can cause both environmental and economic problems.
They have also withdrawn 15 Chinese three-crested tortoisesas well as other exotic turtles such as Chinese striped-necked turtles and hieroglyphic tortoisesThese animals, common in the pet trade, often end up in ponds, streams or lagoons when their owners decide to get rid of them.
The regional services have also had to intervene in the case of corn snakes, royal pythons, and African pygmy hedgehogsSpecies that can adapt relatively easily to certain areas of the region. In addition, Chinese crabs and other invasive invertebrates that exert strong pressure on aquatic ecosystems.
According to the regional government, Many of these animals acclimate surprisingly quickly to their new environmentwhich favors its spread and can cause far-reaching ecological imbalancesTheir presence alters predator-prey relationships, modifies habitats, and complicates the conservation of already threatened native species.
Strict regulations against the release of exotic animals
Given this situation, the Community of Madrid reminds everyone that The release of exotic animals into the wild is expressly prohibited due to current environmental legislation. This is not just a recommendation: those who release these specimens expose themselves to administrative sanctions and other types of liabilitydepending on the damage caused.
The authorities explain that These practices can have consequences for biodiversity, the economy, and even public health.Certain invasive species act as vectors of disease, cause damage to crops or infrastructure, and generate additional costs in habitat control and restoration.
Therefore, the regional government insists on the Importance of responsible pet ownershipespecially when it comes to exotic speciesBefore acquiring one of these specimens, it is recommended to learn about its actual needs, its adult size, its lifespan, and the associated legal obligations.
If you are unable to take care of the animal, the authorities and authorized centers urge you Never release it into the wild and contact the relevant authorities to find a suitable alternative. Abandonment and intentional releases are currently one of the main ways invasive species enter Madrid's ecosystems.
With this control device, the removal of more than 4.000 invasive exotic animals by 2025 Thanks to the work of the Tres Cantos Wildlife Rescue Center (CRAS), the Community of Madrid aims to contain the problem and protect its ecosystems. The challenge, however, extends beyond government action: without greater public awareness of the risks posed by exotic animals, the pressure on biodiversity will continue to grow, requiring increased efforts and resources in the future.
