Ensenada, B.C. – The community of Ensenada is in shock following the deaths of twelve Snowy Egret (Egretta thula) chicks, a consequence of indiscriminate tree trimming in urban areas, coinciding with preparations for the upcoming off-road races organized by NORRA.
The incident, which occurred on Lázaro Cárdenas Avenue in front of the State Arts Center, was denounced by wildlife activist and photographer “Damianimals” through his social media. He expressed his outrage and sorrow over the situation, highlighting that the recently trimmed trees contained numerous nests. “Look at this, I’m going to put my hand in, I shouldn’t do it, but see for yourselves,” he said while trying to return a bird to what was barely a nest.
The response was swift, with thousands joining the protest, emphasizing the lasting damage: “An event that lasts just a couple of days has forever ruined the lives of many birds,” they commented on social networks.
Baja California Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda reacted to the events on Thursday, April 25, instructing the State Environmental Department and the Environmental Protection Agency to address the issue. “They will coordinate with federal authorities to protect this species and determine those responsible,” she assured.
Meanwhile, the Ensenada Municipal Government argued that the tree trimming was part of an annual program to prevent hazards for pedestrians and motorists. However, they acknowledged the negative impact on the nesting egrets and announced an administrative process to clarify the facts and prevent future tragedies of this nature.
It was also clarified that the NORRA race organizers were not involved in the decision to trim the trees, and the Federal Environmental Protection Agency (PROFEPA) is already following up on the case.
In collaboration with civil associations and environmentalists, the Ecology Sub-Directorate is looking for alternatives to ensure the protection and care of the affected birds, while the governor promised to keep the community informed about the progress of the investigation and the actions taken to safeguard the egrets and penalize those responsible for the ecocide.
Photos courtesy of Damianimals
