Foix environmentalists urge cancellation of fireworks to protect eagle-owls

In Foix, France, local environmentalists are calling for the cancellation of a scheduled fireworks display set for September 4. The Ecologistes d’Ariège have issued an open letter to the mayor expressing concern for a family of Eurasian eagle-owls that has nested under the Comtal Castle since December 2025.

The group argues that the pyrotechnic show poses a threat to the birds, noting that if the owls feel endangered, they may abandon the site and not return. They have urged the municipality to prioritize the protection of this local natural heritage over a few minutes of traditional entertainment, while also raising concerns regarding potential fire risks near the castle.