Dozens of common swifts have died after becoming trapped in netting installed at Torrevieja’s main fire station to prevent nesting inside the roof. The birds, which migrate more than 10,000 km from sub-Saharan Africa each year, return to the same breeding sites every spring. Swifts are legally protected in Spain, and destroying their nests can constitute a criminal offence.

The Provincial Fire Consortium confirmed that dense mesh and polystyrene blocks were fitted to close gaps in the building. The measures were intended to prevent droppings accumulating on vehicles, equipment and clothing. However, some firefighters have described the situation as contradictory, given that crews routinely rescue animals as part of their public duties.

Several staff have been freeing trapped birds by cutting the netting and taking fallen chicks to the Santa Faz Wildlife Recovery Centre in San Vicente del Raspeig. Others argue that the birds are unhygienic and disruptive.

Provincial deputy Luis Rodríguez Pérez said he was unaware of the specific wildlife protection rules but stated that an environmental technician had validated the approach. He added that alternatives, such as installing nesting boxes outside the building or replacing the mesh with a finer system, are now under consideration.