Lleida farmers and hunters train to control rabbit overpopulation

Farmers and hunters in the Ponent region of Lleida are undergoing specialized training to combat a rabbit overpopulation that is damaging crops. Organized by Unió de Pagesos, these training sessions in Artesa de Lleida prepare participants for exceptional population control measures, including nighttime operations and the use of tools and calibers not typically permitted during standard hunting.

According to the Department of Agriculture, over 300,000 rabbits were captured in Ponent between June and September 2025. Carol Aixut, the union's national head of Environment, noted that some farmers have had to become hunters to protect their fields. While the administration has increased controls in areas like Segrià and Urgell following sector protests in July, the union is calling for sustained pressure and better coordination between farmers, hunters, and Rural Agents to prevent future population surges.