Industry News
Allegations of animal abuse have surfaced in Italy, following a disturbing incident where a skier chased a wolf on the slopes in the Val di Fiemme ski area and subsequently shared the video on social media. An official complaint was filed by the National Animal Protection Authority (‘ENPA’), alleging that the unidentified individual(s) was endangering the protected animal. The complaint was submitted to the Public Prosecutor’s Office of Trento.
The incident, captured on video—likely by the skier himself—quickly gained traction across social media and the internet. The footage depicts the harrowing sight of the defenseless animal desperately fleeing, evoking images of prey being chased. Tragically, the pursuit culminated in the wolf colliding with netting alongside the ski slope. It is unclear if the animal was injured from the impact.
This disturbing event has sparked outrage and raised serious questions about the treatment of animals in the region. As authorities delve into the matter, the public awaits further developments and hopes for justice to be served for the innocent victim. “What is of particular concern is the health condition of the poor wolf, who may have been injured—even seriously—as a result of the impact. We appeal to the Forestry Corps of Trentino so that everything possible is done to find the animal and make sure of its condition, ensuring that it is provided with all the necessary care, ” the Italian animal protection agency ENPA urges.
According to ENPA, the incident is not an isolated event: “There are now numerous cases of wild animals, wolves, and bears above all, chased by cars, foraged or attracted to take selfies, killed with traps, shot. It is clear that, precisely because of our wicked [human] behavior, it is we who pose a danger to the wild and not them for us.”
Wolves are strictly protected in Italy and shooting of wolves in the Apennines and Alps is only possible with special permits. There are an estimated 51 wolf packs or couples in Italy or approximately 300 wolves, with the majority residing in the western Alps. If the person who chased the wolf in the video is apprehended, he or she could face a prison sentence of between 3-18 months for animal abuse or a fine of between €5,000-30,000 ($5,400-32,500). If the animal were to die from the injuries sustained in the impact, the culprit could face imprisonment of up to 24 months.
