Wild ibexes return to Malaga village streets to escape summer heat

Local resident Rocío Ortiz García photographed the animals, nicknamed Duke and Spirit, exploring Calle Convento in the upper district of Canillas de Aceituno.

The sightings mark the second consecutive year the protected animals have descended from the nearby peaks into the urban area.

"It has now been two years since the mountain goats have gifted us with their visits," Ortiz told SUR.

She added that the animals were driven into the town by soaring July temperatures in search of "a little cool air and some greenery."

Duke, an older male, first became a regular visitor to the village in August 2025, when residents named him.

This summer he has returned with a younger, highly active male that Ortiz has named Spirit.

"Last night a young mountain ibex appeared, performing real balancing acts to explore every corner of the street," Ortiz said.

She added that the animals had been spotted climbing onto rooftops, trees, and rock formations close to local homes.

Canillas de Aceituno, which has a population of 1,850, is located in the foothills of La Maroma within the Sierras de Tejeda, Almijara and Alhama Natural Park.

The regional government of Andalucía lists the mountain range as a major population centre for the Spanish ibex.

The species was previously threatened with extinction and suffered severe population declines due to sarcoptic mange, but is currently undergoing a strong recovery.

While many locals have welcomed the animals, some neighbours have complained that the ibexes are eating decorative plants and flowers outside their front doors.

Regional environmental officials have urged residents not to feed or disturb the ibexes, warning that human intervention can negatively alter wild animal behaviour.