Wolves in Trentino: Frequently Asked Questions

Our FAQs for learning more about these animals

Trentino is home to other large carnivores in addition to bears, such as wolves (present throughout Italy, with a thriving population of over 3,000 individuals) and lynxes, though there are only rare examples of the latter. 

In the majority of cases of encounters with humans, wolves will retreat without showing any signs of aggression. This is true both for lone wolves and for animals belonging to a family group, known as a “pack”, which usually consists of a couple and their offspring. At other times, they may demonstrate an indifferent attitude.

Despite this, it is wise to abide by certain basic precautions. To explore this topic in more detail, we have answered some of the most frequently asked questions.

FAQ

As explained above, the chances of meeting a wolf are remote; in the event that you do encounter one, in most cases the wolf is likely to retreat without displaying any aggressive behaviour. This is true both for lone wolves and for animals belonging to a family group/pack.

 

You can learn more about how to behave in order to enjoy our forests and mountains on the Autonomous Province of Trento’s website dedicated to large carnivores:https://grandicarnivori.provincia.tn.it/Comunicazione/FAQ

You can find more information at LIFE WolfAlps EU project: https://www.lifewolfalps.eu/en/wolf-faq/

To minimise your already slim chances of encountering a wolf at close quarters, you can make noise — for example, by speaking loudly. In the event of a close encounter, keep calm and distance yourself without running. After the wolf has moved away, do not follow it and avoid interfering with its behaviour in all cases. Following the animals in any way is forbidden, even in cases where they are spotted from the car.

If, on the other hand, you have seen the wolf from a distance, stay still and keep silent in order to allow the wolf to continue along its path.

 

You can learn more about how to behave in order to enjoy our forests and mountains on the Autonomous Province of Trento’s website dedicated to large carnivores: https://grandicarnivori.provincia.tn.it/Comunicazione/FAQ

You can find more information at LIFE WolfAlps EU project: https://www.lifewolfalps.eu/en/wolf-faq/

If you have a dog with you, it is best to keep it on a leash to prevent it from running away and inadvertently approaching a wolf which may see it as prey. Not only do the regulations prohibit dogs from roaming the woods freely, in order to protect the wildlife, but they may also be preyed upon by wolves.

 

You can learn more about how to behave in order to enjoy our forests and mountains on the Autonomous Province of Trento’s website dedicated to large carnivores:https://grandicarnivori.provincia.tn.it/Comunicazione/FAQ

You can find more information at LIFE WolfAlps EU project: https://www.lifewolfalps.eu/en/wolf-faq/

Do not leave any organic waste behind you, either in the woods or close to inhabited areas, as wolves may be attracted by this source of food. This risks them gradually losing their natural wariness of human beings. This would be an extremely negative development, primarily for humans but also for the wolves themselves.

 

You can learn more about how to behave in order to enjoy our forests and mountains on the Autonomous Province of Trento’s website dedicated to large carnivores:https://grandicarnivori.provincia.tn.it/Comunicazione/FAQ

You can find more information at LIFE WolfAlps EU project: https://www.lifewolfalps.eu/en/wolf-faq/

Biodiversity in Trentino

Hear from the experts

Claudio Groff (Coordinator of Large Carnivore sector of the Autonomous Province of Trento) discusses bears, wolves and lynxes in Trentino, and how to behave in areas where these animals are present.

 

Listen to our podcast