Cabildo Coordinates Rescue Efforts for Injured Wildlife Across Lanzarote

A disoriented shearwater in Arrecife, a loggerhead turtle discovered along the coast of Tías, and an injured kestrel in Teguise are among the wildlife emergencies recently attended to by Lanzarote’s Injured Wildlife Rescue Service.

Since April 1st, the service has been operating directly through the island’s Environmental Agents, under the management of the Cabildo. In just April and May, more than twenty interventions have been carried out across several municipalities, assisting animals that were injured, trapped, or otherwise in danger.

The rescues have involved a wide variety of species, including shearwaters, yellow-legged gulls, herons, cetaceans, sea turtles, kestrels, and other vulnerable seabirds.

Cabildo president Oswaldo Betancort stressed the importance of rapid intervention in protecting the island’s biodiversity. “Lanzarote has a unique natural heritage, and protecting it means caring for, rehabilitating, and returning to the wild those animals that can survive thanks to specialised intervention,” he said.

What Residents Should Do

The Cabildo is reminding residents and visitors that injured or endangered wildlife should be reported by calling 112 or contacting the Lanzarote Security and Emergency Consortium, which operates the service 24 hours a day and dispatches Environmental Agents when required.

Authorities advise the public not to handle injured wild animals without specialist knowledge, as incorrect handling can worsen injuries, increase stress, or reduce the chances of successful rehabilitation.

For marine species such as turtles, people are advised to keep the animal in a quiet, shaded area while waiting for trained personnel, avoiding unnecessary movement. Cases involving domestic animals should instead be reported to the relevant local council or municipal police. The Environment Department also remains available via email at agentesma@cabildodelanzarote.com for inquiries or wildlife rescue reports.