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 as patrols intensified in recent days in the Abruzzo, Lazio, and Molise National Park.

The park authority stated that traces of suspected poisoned bait had been located in the area where five carcasses were discovered, and the discovery of additional deaths has heightened suspicions of further poisoning.

The authority is working diligently to ascertain the cause of death and is collaborating with local public prosecutors.

Initial investigations have validated the park's concerns, with tests conducted by the local animal health research institute IZS indicating the presence of pesticides typically used in poisoned bait.

Thirteen of the deceased wolves were sent to the Teramo institute, which confirmed the presence of agricultural pesticides.

In response to this alarming situation, Environment Minister Gilberto Pichetto Fratin labeled the killings as horrendous and serious, underscoring the importance of protecting wolves for maintaining ecological balance.

Italy's Institute for Environmental Protection and Research (Ispra) has condemned the poisoning, stating that it undermines strides made in wildlife conservation, as poisoned bait poses a significant risk to other protected species, domestic pets, and public safety.

Wolves have seen a resurgence in populations across Europe, with the EU reporting a 35% increase from 2016 to 2023, particularly in Central Europe and the Alpine regions. In Italy, approximately 3,300 wolves were estimated in a 2020-21 census.

However, an increase in livestock attacks has led to a downgrade in wolf protections. Recent changes allow for a limited annual cull of 160 wolves in Italy starting in 2026, a decision challenged by wildlife advocates following these poisonings.

Stefano Ciafani, head of environmental group Legambiente, described the deaths as an unprecedented attack on protected wildlife, warning that they might incite further violence against wildlife, including critically endangered species like the Marsican brown bear.