Wolves are fundamental predators that play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of species and ecosystems. They have a significant impact on prey populations, plant communities, promote biodiversity, and have a positive impact on the physical geography of landscapes. They are essential and beneficial presences in the ecosystems they inhabit.
The coexistence of humans and wolves is only possible where there is no ignorance and prejudice, and effective preventive measures are put into practice. Unfortunately, politicizing the issue of wolves is a widespread reality in Italy and other countries.
READ: Misconceptions about Wolves (EU project – LIFEWOLFALPS)
The case of Trento (Italy)
Green Impact has supported the administrative appeal of the associations LEIDAA – OIPA- ENPA against the request for the culling of two wolves presented by the Province of Trento. Additionally, it has submitted a Declaration signed by International Experts. The outcome of the administrative procedure is not yet closed. The judicial case has European relevance as the wolf is a ‘strictly’ protected species under European regulations (Habitat Directive), to which the European Court of Justice has increasingly provided more restrictive protection. The predations subject to the judicial process are caused by a lack of prevention by the involved mountain pastures (farms). No wolf has been killed legally in Italy in the last 50 years.
Wolves and Ecotourism:
wolf-watching an incredible source of economic wealth
Nature-based tourism focused on wolves is a synergistic source of nature conservation and territorial wealth for those who understand and manage it. A 2022 study in Yellowstone National Park in the USA found that wolf-watching generated an income of 82 million dollars for local economies and ensured 3200 jobs (https://greateryellowstone.org/blog/2022/wolfquotas).
