Poisoning is suspected in the deaths of 18 wolves within a few days in a national park that straddles three regions of central Italy. After the carcasses of 10 wolves were found last week, another eight were discovered when patrols were intensified in recent days at the Abruzzo, Lazio, and Molise National Park.
The park authority noted that traces of suspected poisoned bait were found in an area where five wolves had been discovered dead, and the latest deaths have raised 'very strong suspicion' of further poisoning.
Officials are working to confirm the cause of death and are coordinating with local public prosecutors. Tests conducted by the local animal health research institute have corroborated initial suspicions. Thirteen of the dead wolves were sent to the institute in Teramo, which found 'pesticides for agriculture' commonly used in poisoned bait.
The killings have sparked strong reactions, with Environment Minister Gilberto Pichetto Fratin condemning them as 'horrendous and serious', emphasizing that the protection of wolves is essential for ecological balance. Italy's Institute for Environmental Protection and Research expressed concerns that such poisoning undermines significant strides in animal protection and conservation, warning of risks to other protected species, domestic pets, and public safety.
Wolves have recently seen population increases in Europe, with Italy's wolf population estimated at about 3,300 as of a 2020-21 census. The rise has been accompanied by increased livestock attacks, prompting changes in protective measures.
Environmental groups are now calling for a review of the limited culling allowed for wolves in Italy, following these tragic events. The incident has highlighted a broader issue of wildlife safety amid escalating tensions between conservation efforts and farming interests.
The park authority noted that traces of suspected poisoned bait were found in an area where five wolves had been discovered dead, and the latest deaths have raised 'very strong suspicion' of further poisoning.
Officials are working to confirm the cause of death and are coordinating with local public prosecutors. Tests conducted by the local animal health research institute have corroborated initial suspicions. Thirteen of the dead wolves were sent to the institute in Teramo, which found 'pesticides for agriculture' commonly used in poisoned bait.
The killings have sparked strong reactions, with Environment Minister Gilberto Pichetto Fratin condemning them as 'horrendous and serious', emphasizing that the protection of wolves is essential for ecological balance. Italy's Institute for Environmental Protection and Research expressed concerns that such poisoning undermines significant strides in animal protection and conservation, warning of risks to other protected species, domestic pets, and public safety.
Wolves have recently seen population increases in Europe, with Italy's wolf population estimated at about 3,300 as of a 2020-21 census. The rise has been accompanied by increased livestock attacks, prompting changes in protective measures.
Environmental groups are now calling for a review of the limited culling allowed for wolves in Italy, following these tragic events. The incident has highlighted a broader issue of wildlife safety amid escalating tensions between conservation efforts and farming interests.
