Eighteen wolves die from pesticide poisoning in Italian national park

7 articles · Updated · BBC.com · Apr 24

Tests by the Teramo animal health institute confirmed agricultural pesticides in bait after 18 wolves died in Abruzzo, Lazio, and Molise National Park within days.
Authorities and prosecutors are investigating, with Environment Minister Fratin condemning the killings and environmental groups warning of further risks to wildlife, including the critically endangered Marsican brown bear.
Italy's wolf population is about 3,300, with recent EU policy changes allowing limited culls; wildlife groups urge reconsideration following this unprecedented poisoning, which also threatens other protected species and public safety.

Can Italy’s justice system break the cycle of unpunished wildlife crime?

Could this poison trap be the final blow for the 50 remaining Marsican bears?

With a legal cull planned for 2026, why did a mass poisoning happen now?

How long will these deadly pesticides threaten park visitors and their pets?

Are fences and guard dogs enough to stop the escalating war on wolves?