This initiative, part of the #stopculebrareal program, aims to safeguard the archipelago's biodiversity against this invasive species. The collaboration extends to the Biodiversity Service of the General Directorate of Natural Environment of the Ministry of Ecological Transition and Energy of the Government of the Canary Islands, the Cabildo de Gran Canaria, and Puertos Canarios.
The operation focuses on detecting potential snakes hidden in vehicles, especially in port areas. The Environmental Groups (GRUMA) and Transport Groups (GRUTE) of the General Corps of the Canarian Police, along with a specialized Canine Unit, conduct random inspections.
“"The action is especially focused on preventing the possible departure of specimens to other islands through maritime transport."
The canine team, consisting of five dogs, two handlers, and a trainer, began its activities in 2023 in Mercalaspalmas and has expanded its coverage to the entire island. Currently, the operation has started in the Port of Las Nieves, in Agaete, a strategic point due to its high volume of inter-island traffic, which exceeded one million passengers in 2024, and its proximity to population centers of the snake.
In a later phase, these actions are expected to extend to Fuerteventura and include the control of other invasive exotic species, thus strengthening biosecurity in the archipelago.
