Native Livestock Reduce Wildfire Risk in Galicia, Spain

In Galicia, a new wildfire‑prevention strategy is taking shape as local communities turn to native livestock to clear flammable undergrowth. The program, which has accelerated after Spain’s worst wildfire season in 2025, aims to reduce the risk of future fires by using goats, sheep, and cows to graze on vegetation that would otherwise serve as fuel. The initiative comes in the wake of nearly 119,000 hectares of land that burned last year—an area roughly twice the size of Madrid—highlighting the urgent need for innovative, low‑cost mitigation measures.

Key to the effort are indigenous species well‑adapted to the region’s rugged terrain. The Cachena, a goat‑like cow native to Galicia, is prized for its broad foraging range and ability to navigate steep slopes, making it an effective tool for clearing brush in hard‑to‑reach areas. Alongside sheep and other local goats, the Cachena helps reduce dry vegetation, thereby lowering the potential intensity of any future fires. By leveraging these animals, the program seeks to create a sustainable, community‑driven buffer against the escalating threat of wildfires.

The use of native livestock offers a cost‑effective complement to traditional fire‑fighting techniques, potentially easing pressure on firefighting resources and preserving the region’s ecological balance. As Galicia continues to adapt its wildfire strategy, the integration of the Cachena and other native animals represents a practical step toward mitigating fire risk while supporting local agricultural practices.