Parrot Plague Hits Hilario Ascasubi: Residents Desperate for Solutions

The town of Hilario Ascasubi in Argentina faces a parrot invasion due to deforestation. Thousands of green-yellow-red birds are damaging electric cables and causing power outages. Efforts to scare them away have failed, frustrating residents. Experts urge environmental restoration to address the root cause.

The town of Hilario Ascasubi near Argentina's eastern Atlantic coast is grappling with an unusual invasion of parrots.

Driven from their natural habitat by deforestation, thousands of green-yellow-red birds now seek refuge in the town, causing power outages by damaging electric cables and creating a significant nuisance for residents. "The hillsides are disappearing, and this is causing them to come closer to the cities to find food, shelter and water," said biologist Daiana Lera, highlighting the gradual loss of Argentina's forest land.

The parrots, which migrate to the town during autumn and winter, can number up to ten for every resident, especially during summer when they head south to Patagonia to breed. Efforts to scare the birds away have proven ineffective, leaving townspeople exasperated. Local journalist Ramón Alvarez from Radio Taxi Fm noted the daily costs and inconveniences brought on by the persistent power outages. "We need to start restoring our natural environments," urged Lera. "Until then, we must find ways to coexist harmoniously in our towns."

(With inputs from agencies.)