KOPRIVSHTITSA, BULGARIA — A heartbreaking incident unfolded in the Bulgarian town of Koprivshtitsa on January 1, 2025, when 591 songbirds from a protected species perished as a result of stress induced by fireworks during New Year’s Eve celebrations.
Environmentalists from the “Green Balkans” organization reported the tragic event after receiving multiple reports from local residents about the discovery of dead birds scattered around the area.
A total of 606 mountain finches were brought to the organization’s wildlife rescue center, where veterinarians conducted examinations to determine the cause of death.
Unfortunately, only 15 of the birds survived, while the majority of the flock succumbed to severe internal injuries caused by extreme stress. The veterinarians found that hemorrhages in the birds’ abdominal cavities and skulls were the direct cause of their deaths.
The shocking discovery came when local residents alerted the authorities on January 1, 2025, reporting large numbers of deceased birds in the vicinity.
Members of the “Green Balkans” team swiftly responded, visiting the site and gathering the birds they could find before sunset.
Though 606 finches were collected, the organization fears that the actual number of fatalities is likely even higher, with some birds possibly having died in other locations around the area.
According to environmentalists, the tragic loss of life was directly linked to the noise and chaos caused by fireworks during the New Year’s Eve festivities.
Birds, especially sensitive species like the mountain finch, are easily distressed by loud noises and sudden disruptions. The fireworks’ blasts created an environment of panic for the birds, leading to fatal stress-induced injuries.
“Birds are particularly vulnerable to sudden changes in their environment, and the explosive noise from fireworks can cause them significant trauma.”
“The panic they experience can be fatal, as was the case with these mountain finches,” said a representative from “Green Balkans.” The organization also expressed concern that similar incidents may have occurred in other parts of Bulgaria.
While the situation in Koprivshtitsa has drawn attention, there are fears that the stress caused by New Year’s Eve fireworks could have affected other protected species across the country.
The “Green Balkans” team is calling for greater awareness regarding the impact of fireworks on wildlife, especially in areas where protected species are known to reside.
They urge local governments and communities to consider alternative, less disruptive ways of celebrating public holidays to protect vulnerable wildlife from similar incidents in the future.
Environmentalists have also called for stricter regulations on fireworks displays, particularly in areas where wildlife is present, to prevent any further harm to protected species.
This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the unintended consequences of seemingly harmless holiday traditions.
While fireworks are a beloved part of celebrations around the world, the toll they take on wildlife, especially in areas where species are already at risk, cannot be ignored.
The call for a more thoughtful approach to public celebrations continues to grow louder, as communities strive to balance tradition with the need to protect the natural world.