The Guardia Civil have discovered an undocumented corral containing 29 head of sheep and goats hidden inside an agricultural estate in San Miguel de Salinas, Alicante. The animals, which completely lacked any veterinary control or paperwork, have been officially seized and placed under the authority of regional health inspectors.
The discovery was made during a routine inspection carried out by the Nature Protection Service (SEPRONA) of the Guardamar Guardia Civil. These checks are conducted periodically to monitor the use of phytosanitary products and ensure proper sanitary conditions on agricultural and livestock farms.
While inspecting an agricultural warehouse, officers found a fenced corral hidden amongst trees on the property. The enclosure contained seven adult sheep, thirteen goats, and nine kids. According to a statement from the Guardia Civil, the individual responsible for the animals could not provide any documentation and claimed they were being kept for personal use.
Following the discovery, officers contacted the official veterinarian from the local regional agricultural office, leading to a precautionary lockdown of the livestock until competent health authorities could intervene. The lack of identification, registration, and health checks means it is impossible to guarantee the traceability and health status of the animals, which are vital components for protecting animal health and food safety.
The Guardia Civil noted that current regulations strictly require livestock farms to be registered, mandating specific identification and traceability systems for sheep and goats. The herd remains confined to the estate at the disposal of the Territorial Services of the Department of Agriculture, Livestock, and Environment of Alicante, who must evaluate their health status before any relocation can be approved.
Under the Livestock Law of the Valencian Community, severe breaches can carry fines ranging from 3,001 euro to 60,000 euro, while very serious infractions can attract penalties between 60,001 euro and 1.2 million euro. The competent administrative authority will be responsible for classifying the final offences and determining any applicable financial sanctions. The Guardia Civil reiterated that they regularly carry out these inspections on agricultural properties to ensure compliance with animal health laws and safeguard consumer food safety.
