ROME, April 23, 2026 At least 18 wolves have been found poisoned in a national park in Italy's Abruzzo region, prompting an investigation by local prosecutors and condemnation from conservation groups.
Investigation Underway
The local prosecutor's office has opened an investigation into the poisonings, according to multiple sources. The case has drawn significant attention from environmental organizations, including the WWF, which has repeatedly highlighted the threat to Italy's wolf population.
The exact method and motive behind the poisonings remain unclear, but the scale of the incident suggests a coordinated effort. Wolves in Italy are a protected species under EU law, making such killings a serious offense. The Abruzzo region, known for its rugged landscapes and wildlife, is one of the last strongholds for wolves in the country.
Conservation Groups Sound Alarm
The WWF, a leading environmental NGO, has been vocal in its response to the poisonings, calling for stricter enforcement of wildlife protection laws. The organization has documented seven cases of wolf killings in the region over the past year, but the latest incident marks a sharp escalation.
Piero Genovesi, a wildlife expert with ISPRA, Italy's Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, emphasized the ecological impact of the poisonings. "Wolves play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems," he said. "Their loss could have cascading effects on other species and the environment as a whole."