Protection of the species
Parliament is preparing to adopt the downgrading of the wolf's status from "strictly protected species" to "protected species," as part of the proposed amendment to the Habitats Directive. This does not mean a green light for indiscriminate culling. Protection remains, but it opens the possibility for local authorities to adopt management plans that allow for targeted interventions in problematic situations, while still ensuring the species' proper conservation.
Favorable state of conservation
For the UNA Foundation, the real issue isn't the declassification itself, but management. The wolf is an important component of Italian biodiversity and currently enjoys a favorable conservation status. At the same time, its growing presence in populated areas creates conflicts with livestock farming, agriculture, and other economic activities, impacting the balance between predators and prey and phenomena such as hybridization with dogs.
Ideologies to overcome
A rigorously scientific approach is therefore needed, based on up-to-date data and ongoing monitoring, which defines management criteria that integrate ecological, economic, and social parameters, recognizing a fundamental principle: resources should be allocated to the species most urgently needed for conservation. Overcoming ideological conflicts is crucial. Only authoritative governance can ensure stable coexistence between humans and wolves, protecting biodiversity and avoiding social conflicts, economic damage, and illegal practices such as poaching.
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