Andorra Approves Animal Welfare Bill, Wildlife Centre on Track for 2026

Guillem Casal, the government spokesperson and Minister of Environment, Agriculture and Livestock, announced that Andorra's executive approved a new animal welfare bill this week. He will present the full proposal at a dedicated press conference next Wednesday.

Casal provided the update on Thursday during the signing of an agreement between his ministry and the Official College of Pharmacists on waste management. He said the bill forms part of a package of texts approved by the government the previous day. Journalists sought details, but he declined to elaborate, stating the extensive content requires a proper public explanation. He emphasised the importance of companion animals and domestic livestock, noting their prevalence in the country.

At the same event, Casal confirmed that construction of the new Wildlife Recovery Centre in Canillo is progressing on schedule, with completion targeted before the end of 2026. He has visited the site twice and described the works as advancing at a good pace while meeting deadlines. Current efforts focus on infrastructure elements including walls, roofing, stone exterior features, and interior finishes such as enclosures and aviaries for mammals and birds.

The new centre will replace the existing facility in Santa Coloma, which typically houses a small number of animals and often serves as a transfer point. Serious cases are referred to specialised centres abroad, such as Vallcalent in Lleida. The Santa Coloma site currently holds two birds; a recently arrived capercaillie with severe injuries could not be saved. Admissions tend to rise in spring, with more injured birds or orphaned young needing care.

Once ready, the government plans to relocate equipment, technical resources, and any animals under recovery from Santa Coloma. The upgraded facility will enhance Andorra's wildlife recovery capacity and integrate into the proposed national natural park.