Rome, Feb 4, (dpa/GNA) – The bodies of four wolves thought to have been poisoned, were found by passers-by close to a cycle path in the Italian Alps
over the weekend, authorities in Trentino province reported on Monday.
The bodies are to undergo examination by vets to ascertain the cause of death.
It was simultaneously reported that a she-wolf that died in neighbouring South Tyrol province in September, had probably been poisoned. Final
confirmation is still pending, and an investigation has been launched.
The wolves are believed to have been poisoned by residents opposed to their proliferation in the region. There is increasing concern in northern Italy
over the presence of wolves and bears in woodlands.
Opponents say they pose a danger to people and to domestic animals, in a region with an economy heavily dependent on tourism.
Local councillor Roberto Failoni termed the killings “illegal poaching” and said the use of poison posed a serious danger to other animals, including
dogs.
GNA