Agriculture
AI
Estonia Euthanizes Neglected Highland Herd Amid Legal Fight
Estonian authorities have begun culling a herd of 12 abandoned Highland cattle in Kiili Parish after finding them emaciated and living among decomposing carcasses, a decision the owner is challenging in court.
- —Estonian authorities have begun the culling of 12 Highland cattle, including five calves, found abandoned and in poor condition in Kiili Parish in October.
- —The Department of Agriculture and Food (PTA) identified serious violations of animal welfare regulations, including the animals' emaciated state, lack of proper marking, and unsuitable living conditions.
- —The pasture where the cattle were allegedly kept was found to be damaged, with empty and dirty water troughs, and several decomposing carcasses of cattle on the grounds.
- —The owner of the animals contested the PTA's actions in court after receiving a notice of the violations on October 20th.
- —Due to the inability to legally rehome or auction the animals as they lack breeding value and proper documentation, the PTA is proceeding with their euthanasia.
Recap
This incident exposes a critical flaw in Estonia's agricultural regulations. The state-sanctioned culling is not merely a response to animal cruelty but a direct consequence of a legal void concerning neglected livestock without documented commercial value. The owner's legal challenge further complicates the state's ability to act, highlighting a system ill-equipped to humanely and efficiently dispose of animals that fall outside established economic frameworks.