Overview
- At least 18 wolves were found dead across sites in and around Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise National Park in central Italy.
- Park authorities said poisoned bait is the most likely cause, and tests are underway to confirm what killed the animals.
- Prosecutors in the city of Sulmona opened a criminal investigation into the suspected wildlife poisoning.
- Environment Minister Gilberto Pichetto Fratin called the killings horrendous and ordered the forestry police to intensify inspections to find those responsible.
- Environmental group Legambiente said three foxes and a buzzard were also found dead in the area, raising fears of wider illegal poisoning.