Poisoning Suspected in 18 Wolf Deaths in Italian National Park

Authorities in the Abruzzo, Lazio, and Molise National Park have raised concerns after 18 wolves were found dead within a short period. The first 10 carcasses were discovered last week, followed by eight more in recent days as patrols increased. These deaths have sparked suspicion of poisoning, with the park’s findings pointing to bait contaminated with agricultural pesticides.

Environment Minister Gilberto Pichetto Fratin called the incident “horrendous and serious,” stressing that protecting wolves is “crucial to the balance of our ecosystem.”

Testing Confirms Poison Bait Link

Tests by the local IZS research institute in Teramo revealed that 13 of the dead wolves had traces of pesticides used in poisoned bait. This supports the park authority’s claim that the deaths were likely caused by toxic substances, prompting collaboration with public prosecutors to uncover the source.

EU Status and Livestock Impact

The European Union has recorded a 35% rise in wolf numbers since 2016, reaching 23,000 by 2023.