Italy investigates deaths of protected wolves in Tuscany

Authorities in Italy are investigating the deaths of several wolves in the Tuscany region. In the province of Pisa, the animal protection group LNDC reported that a female wolf was shot in the Vecchiano area, reportedly suffering for hours before dying. Shortly after, a dead wolf cub was discovered in the nearby Arena Metato area, prompting calls for an investigation into whether the two incidents are linked.

In a separate incident in Viano, a young male wolf was found dead in a field in the Minghetta locality. Local officials reported that the animal appeared to have been killed by gunfire, with a bullet hole observed in its body. Because wolves are a protected species under Italian law (Law 157/1992), the illegal killing of these animals constitutes a criminal offense.

Local police and the Carabinieri Forestale have been notified and are conducting investigations to determine the exact causes of death and identify those responsible.