Yes, keeping roadkill in Spain is legal under strict conditions, primarily governed by regional wildlife and waste management laws. The 2023 reform of Law 42/2007 on Natural Heritage and Biodiversity permits retention for personal use if the animal is not protected and proper notification is made to the Consejería de Medio Ambiente of the relevant autonomous community.
Key Regulations for Keeping Roadkill in Spain
- Species Restrictions: Only non-protected species (e.g., common foxes, wild boars in some regions) may be kept. Protected species (e.g., lynx, vultures) require permits under EU Habitat Directive 92/43/EEC, enforced by regional authorities like Junta de Andalucía or Generalitat de Catalunya.
- Notification Obligations: Within 48 hours of discovery, the finder must report the carcass to local environmental agencies or via platforms like Sistema de Información de la Biodiversidad de España (SIBE). Failure to comply risks fines up to €3,000 under regional waste laws.
- Disposal and Use: Carcasses must be stored hygienically (e.g., refrigerated) and used for non-commercial purposes (e.g., taxidermy, personal consumption if edible). Regional decrees (e.g., Decreto 127/2019 in Madrid) may impose additional hygiene or disposal protocols.