Italian wolf

The Italian wolf, also known as the Apennine wolf, is a distinct subspecies of the grey wolf that inhabits the Italian Peninsula. You’ll primarily find these wolves in the Apennine Mountains and the Western Alps. As of 2019, their population was estimated to be around 600-700 individuals. Thanks to stringent protection laws in Italy since the 1970s, their numbers are slowly recovering, despite ongoing threats such as illegal hunting.

These wolves typically weigh between 25 to 35 kg, but some larger males can reach 40-45 kg. They possess a distinctive coat that blends grey and tawny colors and have unique skull structures. They live in small packs, usually comprising two to seven wolves.

Scientists have debated whether the Italian wolf constitutes its own subspecies due to its unique genetic markers and skull characteristics. While some have classified it with the common European wolf, recent studies indicate it should be recognized as a distinct subspecies, Canis lupus italicus.

Genetically, the Italian wolf is particularly notable. It has a unique mitochondrial haplotype not found in other wolf populations, making it the last wolf population in Europe with this ancient genetic lineage, highlighting its uniqueness and long-term isolation.

Over the years, the Italian wolf population has been rebounding across Italy, thanks to conservation efforts. They have even been observed in France and Switzerland, with genetic evidence indicating they are naturally expanding from Italy.

Wolves hold a significant place in Latin and Italian culture, especially in Roman mythology. They were considered sacred to Mars, the god of war, and are part of the legend of Rome's founding. Despite historical beliefs that depicted wolves as dangerous, modern records show very few wolf attacks on humans in Italy.