Spain Bans Free-Range Poultry Farming Amid Rising Avian Influenza Cases

Spain's Ministry of Agriculture has announced a ban on free-range poultry farming starting November 10, 2025, in response to a sharp increase in avian influenza outbreaks. This measure aims to prevent further spread of the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) virus affecting both domestic and wild birds across the country and Europe. From July 1 to November 5, Europe reported 139 HPAI outbreaks in domestic birds, 708 in wild birds, and 33 in captive birds. Spain alone has recorded 14 outbreaks in poultry and 68 in wild birds, with outbreaks particularly affecting regions including Madrid, Aragón, Castilla-La Mancha, and Castilla y León.

One significant outbreak in Olmedo (Valladolid) forced the culling of over 300,000 birds. The Ministry's decision also includes prohibiting the breeding of ducks and geese alongside other poultry species, restricting access to water sources accessible to wild birds, and banning poultry presence at animal concentration centers. These steps follow similar confinements in Ireland, France, and Great Britain due to the return of migratory birds increasing virus transmission risks.

In addition to the ban, the Ministry has called for enhanced biosecurity and surveillance measures nationwide to combat the rising threat of avian influenza as colder temperatures approach. Spain's action highlights the growing concern over HPAI in Europe, where Germany leads with 59 domestic bird outbreaks, followed by Poland and Italy. By enforcing these preventative measures, Spanish authorities aim to contain the spread and protect poultry farming and public health.