WOLF-Puglia

The wolf (Canis lupus) represents a fundamental component of terrestrial ecosystems. As an apex predator, it plays a key role in regulating prey populations (primarily ungulates, but not exclusively), limiting not only their numbers but also reducing the risk of zoonotic disease spread, which can potentially have deleterious impacts on human economic activities (e.g. African swine fever).

The presence of the wolf in Apulia, including in proximity to highly anthropized areas, together with recent changes in its protection status, makes it necessary to plan a monitoring campaign aimed at estimating population size, spatial distribution, and feeding habits of the species at the regional scale.

Achieving an adequate and detailed level of knowledge requires a multi-year planning approach, which will allow the development of a comprehensive map of wolf presence in Apulia and of its interactions with productive activities. This pilot project – Wolves Observation and Landscape Framework in Puglia – aims to identify good monitoring practices that are easily applicable and repeatable. An effective and well-structured monitoring strategy requires planning based on solid scientific evidence drawn from existing knowledge, capable of optimizing sampling effort according to expected outcomes and maximizing the value of the information collected.

During the pilot phase, a set of activities will be implemented to test the most effective sampling methodologies and to identify optimal strategies for stakeholder engagement in selected pilot areas, with a particular focus on the livestock sector.

The initiative is structured into four operational modules and will be implemented in four pilot areas of the region—Salento, Valle d’Itria, Alta Murgia, and Gargano—which, despite their differing environmental characteristics, share the presence of the wolf and a high incidence of agricultural and livestock activities. In these areas, managing coexistence between wolves and human activities is crucial to preventing potential conflicts.

Building on the experience and knowledge gained through the Hic Sunt Lupi project in Salento, the pilot project will integrate existing knowledge and assess wolf presence in the selected areas, actively involving stakeholders to promote a shared and sustainable management of the species.