The situation has reached a breaking point in municipalities such as Verdú, Preixana, and Maldà. Recent rainfall has boosted vegetation growth, leading to a population explosion of these animals. Farmers claim that protected bird zones (ZEPA) have become reservoirs for uncontrolled wildlife.
“"If we have to feed the rabbits, they should compensate us. This is the worst year we can remember."
Economic losses are mounting. In Verdú alone, 200 hectares of cereal have been left unplanted. Rabbits are not only eating the grain but also gnawing on olive, almond, and pistachio shoots, killing the trees despite protective measures.
While the Government of Catalonia has announced two million euros in aid, the sector insists this is insufficient to cover rising production costs and the scale of the damage.
