University of Udine wildlife management initiatives

The University of Udine has expanded its initiatives regarding wildlife management and conservation in Italy.

Initially, the university launched a one-year master’s program directed by Stefano Filacorda. The curriculum is designed to train professionals in the monitoring and care of various species, including large carnivores like bears, wolves, and lynxes, through both invasive and non-invasive techniques. The program emphasizes integrating ecological and veterinary skills to foster coexistence between human activities and wild animals.

Following this, the Friuli Venezia Giulia Region allocated 1.7 million euros to the university to establish a specialized veterinary clinic in Pagnacco. Managed by the Department of Agro-food, Environmental and Animal Sciences, the facility will support the Research and Coordination Center for Wildlife Recovery (CRFS). The clinic will focus on the hospitalization and rehabilitation of wildlife, specifically large carnivores and mesocarnivores, while also funding research into mitigating risks and damage caused by wildlife in mountainous and inland areas.