Italian authorities crack down on wildlife poaching

Law enforcement agencies in Italy have conducted several operations to combat wildlife poaching and illegal hunting. In the province of Siracusa, Sicily, the Sicilian Regional Forestry Corps executed operation ‘Coturnix4’ in the rural areas of Noto and Pachino. Authorities seized nine electronic devices designed to illegally attract quail (Coturnix coturnix) using speakers and timers during nighttime hours along migratory routes.

In San Vito Lo Capo, Carabinieri Forestali and CITES specialists intercepted two men using trap nets to capture goldfinches. The individuals were using live birds as decoys to attract more specimens. Dozens of birds were rescued; after being verified as healthy, they were released back into their natural habitat, while the illegal equipment was confiscated and the men were reported for hunting theft.

These actions are part of ongoing efforts by regional and national authorities to protect natural heritage and enforce wildlife protection laws.