Tourists Fined in Teide for Uprooting Red Tajinaste and Collecting Stones

A couple of visitors were intercepted by Environmental Agents after being alerted by Rural Guards in Teide National Park.

Image of a red tajinaste plant in Teide National Park, Tenerife.
IA

Image of a red tajinaste plant in Teide National Park, Tenerife.

Environmental agents from the Cabildo de Tenerife intercepted a tourist couple in Teide National Park for uprooting a red tajinaste plant and collecting several stones, potentially facing significant financial penalties.

The intervention occurred this Tuesday afternoon in the Tabonal Negro area, within Teide National Park. The initial alert was issued by the Rural Guards, who informed the agents about the couple's prohibited activities.
Upon arrival, agents confirmed that the couple, described as a middle-aged German married couple, had uprooted a red tajinaste (Echium wildpretii) and were in possession of several stones from the protected area. This information was released by the Natural Environment department through its social media channels.
Following the confiscation of the plant material and stones, the offenders were identified, and the corresponding infringement report was filed. Those reported could face fines of up to 1,500 euros.

"The Cabildo de Tenerife has reiterated the importance of conserving the island's natural spaces."

a spokesperson for the Cabildo de Tenerife
The Cabildo de Tenerife has emphasized the need to preserve the island's natural areas, highlighting the importance of respecting native flora and fauna to maintain the biodiversity and ecological value of zones such as Teide National Park.