The surreal invasion of peacocks in Punta Marina: over 100 specimens wander everywhere and sing at night (exasperating the citizens)

In Punta Marina, a hamlet of Ravenna, the strongest call of spring does not come from the sea, but from peacocks. For weeks, dozens of specimens have been crossing the streets, sidewalks, gardens and roofs of the Ravenna area, transforming the town into a scenario as spectacular as it is discussed. What years ago seemed like a curious and isolated presence has become a true colony out of control.

Residents now speak of over 100-120 specimens, a number that has grown rapidly especially after the 2020 lockdown, when the animals began to move undisturbed in urban areas. Today peacocks are everywhere: they walk among cars, climb onto roofs, invade gardens and occupy the streets of the center, attracting tourists, photographers and onlookers.

The mating season sparks protests

With the arrival of the mating season, however, the discontent of part of the population also increases. Male peacocks emit continuous and particularly loud calls, especially at dawn and during the night, transforming the quiet of the seaside resort into a constant source of disturbance. Many citizens report a situation that has become difficult to bear.

In addition to the noise, there are reports of displaced tiles, leaks in roofs, ruined gardens and pavements stained with guano. Some residents say they live with large groups of animals in front of their homes every day. There are those who speak of a presence that is now unmanageable and those who, exasperated by the absence of concrete interventions, turn to extreme solutions such as collecting eggs to limit proliferation.

Between tourism and affection: not everyone wants to send them away

Despite the protests, an important part of the community defends the peacocks. For many inhabitants and traders they now represent a symbol of Punta Marina, a picturesque presence that attracts visitors and intrigues children and tourists. According to local animal rights associations, the phenomenon is amplified especially in the spring period and could be better managed by avoiding incorrect behavior, such as giving food to animals.

The very food offered by some residents would have favored the formation of small, increasingly stable colonies within the country. In recent years the Municipality had attempted to start a coexistence project by installing information signs and promoting public meetings with experts to explain how to behave with animals.

The Municipality prepares an official census

Now, however, the situation seems to have reached a decisive point. The municipal administration has announced the launch of an official census to understand how many peacocks are actually present in the area and evaluate possible future interventions. The last count, dating back to 2023, spoke of around thirty specimens, but today the numbers appear much higher.

Only after the census will the Municipality decide whether to adopt containment measures or alternative solutions, in consultation with citizens and animal rights associations. In the meantime, ISPRA would also have opened up to the possibility of interventions to limit the population, remembering that the peacock is not a protected species. A solution which, we hope, will not be implemented by opting for less bloody alternatives.

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