The Lombard-Veneto Prealpsone of the areas most affected by poaching in Italy, they were the fulcrum ofoperation “Pettirosso 2024”conducted by the Forestry Carabinieri and coordinated by the SOARDA Operations Department of the CITES Carabinieri Group.
This initiative has led to significant results: over 100 complaints for crimes against wildlife, 4 arrestsmore than 1,000 illegal capture tools seized and the same number of live birds released into the wild. However, the Italian regulatory and political situation continues to represent an obstacle to the protection of biodiversity, indirectly favoring illegal activities.
Among the most frequent crimes recorded are aggravated theft of wildlifethe receiptThe mistreatment and thekilling of animalsas well as the use of prohibited devices such as nets, traps and adhesive substances. Despite the commitment of the police, the regulatory framework has progressively weakened: the Lombardy Region, for example, has changed the law on hunting 14 times in four years, reducing protections for wildlife.
The European Union has launched a pre-infringement procedure against Italy
This situation attracted the attention of the European Union, which initiated a pre-infringement procedure against Italy for failure to apply the Birds Directive (2009/147/EC). If adequate measures are not taken, the country risks heavy economic sanctions and significant reputational damage. The passivity of the Council of Ministers, which has often avoided challenging regional laws that conflict with national and European regulations, further aggravates the problem.
Despite this complex context, the work of associations such as the WWF with its volunteer hunting guards proves crucial. The Wild Animal Recovery Center (CRAS) of Valpredina, in the Bergamo area, welcomed over 1,000 animals from the beginning of the hunting season. Among these, there are 28 birds of prey injured by gunfire and several small birds caught illegally. The commitment of volunteers and law enforcement has made it possible to save numerous lives, but the need for more incisive political support remains clear.
Domenico Aiello, of WWF Italy, underlines the urgency of adopt stricter rules and to implement preventive strategies. The Directive on the Criminal Protection of the Environment represents an opportunity to strengthen laws and ensure greater protection of biodiversity. Only through joint action and concrete institutional commitment will it be possible effectively combat poaching and preserve natural heritage for future generations.
