Mass poisoning suspected as 18 wolves die in Italy
Italian authorities are investigating the deaths of at least 18 wolves and several other wild animals found in recent days in the national park, which conservation groups say is one of the worst attacks on wildlife in Italy.
The carcasses were discovered at several locations in and around the National Park of Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise, a mountainous region in the center of the country that has long been considered a stronghold of Italy’s recovering wolf population.
National park officials said the animals were likely killed by poisoned bait, raising concerns for public safety and biodiversity.
The statement said, “The extent of what happened is devastating,” and expressed “deep sadness and disbelief.”
Environment Minister Gilberto Pichetto Fratin described the killings as “horrible” and added that he had ordered Italy’s forestry police to intensify inspections to identify those responsible.
“The Ministry is being particularly careful and sensitive about the protection of a species that is so important for the balance of our ecosystem,” he said in the statement.
Italy’s protected wolf population has rebounded in recent years after being threatened with extinction in the 20th century.
The 2020-21 census suggested there were approximately 3,300 wolves across the country.
However, in some rural areas, farmers complain about attacks on animals.
Angelo Bonelli, a member of parliament from the opposition Greens and Left Alliance party, accused the government of failing to counter the hunting lobby seen as close to the conservative parties in the ruling coalition.
“There is a need for rapid investigations, tighter controls and exemplary sanctions,” he said.
Environmental group Legambiente said three foxes and a vulture were also found dead in the same area, reinforcing fears of widespread, illegal poisoning.
“This is an unprecedented attack on protected wildlife,” the statement said.
Prosecutors in the nearby city of Sulmona opened an investigation.
Authorities also appealed to local communities to report suspicious activity as tests continue to determine the exact cause of death.
