In early 2024, the port of Antwerp received an unexpected visitor. A puffin hitched a ride on a ship’s deck and journeyed as far as Antwerp. Each day, hundreds of thousands of tonnes of goods move through Port of Antwerp-Bruges. What if that cargo contains unexpected exotic visitors?
Volunteers from the Kieldrecht Bird Rescue Centre transported the puffin to the Bird Rescue Centre in Ostend, where he was given a thorough wash, following a strict protocol. The animal, appearing healthy, was granted its freedom a week after its surprise journey.
©Opvangcentrum Vogels en Wilde Dieren OostendeThe puffin was given a thorough wash
©Opvangcentrum Vogels en Wilde Dieren OostendeHowever, what if the unexpected passenger is a little less cute? At times, animals on board can create unexpected challenges.
In July 2024, Zeebrugge encountered an unusual problem when a ship carrying new cars from South Africa couldn't be unloaded due to spiders. While harmless, the spiders raised alarms about the unintended introduction of a non-native species to Europe. A specialised team enclosed the ship completely and treated it with a biological pesticide to eliminate the spiders.
Sometimes, it’s the more dangerous animals that manage to sneak a ride. Certain species, like the Asian hornet and tiger mosquito, can wreak havoc on forests, landscapes, other insects, and even humans if they enter the country undetected. In such cases, caution is essential.
CEPA, the organisation of port employers in Antwerp, has established a standard procedure that port workers must follow to ensure the safety of both people and goods. In doing so, their first priority is to leave the animal alone. No one should attempt to scare it away or remove it on their own. Soon after, they should notify CEPA's prevention service, who will take over and call in the relevant experts. An expert will establish whether the animal is harmful and if any steps are needed. This way, everyone involved in the port works together to keep people and goods safe.
©Opvangcentrum Vogels en Wilde Dieren Oostende
