DAYS OF THE WOLF

In the Italian central Apennine mountain range, and neighbouring areas, coexistence between livestock and large carnivores has proven to be highly problematic. Due to the growing population of wolves and wolf-dog hybrids, attacks on livestock are now rising at an alarming rate, bringing local pastoralists to their knees and driving some of them close to bankruptcy. The economic impact of such attacks amounts to hundreds of thousands of euros yearly. Increasing hybridisation between wolves and dogs is also threatening the genetic integrity of the Apennine wolf. Because of persistent attacks on their animals, pastoralists are now being forced to transform their extensive livestock system into a new husbandry regime, whereby free-range herds are confined within stables and fences for longer periods. Under such conditions, livestock production and reproduction rates are being seriously affected. The cumulative impact of all these factors is resulting into the decline of well-managed grazing land, as well of traditional livestock breeds, leading to the loss of unique biocultural diversity. No concrete actions are being taken by both Italian National and Regional governments to address these issues. As of now, pastoralists’ demands remain unanswered.