The Marsican brown bear is the most endangered mammal of any species with a population in Italy.
The heart of its conservation is the Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise National Park, established for its protection as far back as 1922.
In recent years, population numbers have remained more or less stable — but at a level far too low to ensure the species’ long-term survival, as reported in the Italian Red List compiled by Federparchi on behalf of the Ministry of Environment, Land and Sea Protection.
The reasons why the population has failed to grow are varied, and not all fully understood. At its most basic, however, the situation can be summed up simply: births barely keep pace with deaths.
Population growth can be encouraged by addressing both sides of this equation, though in theory it is easier to reduce deaths — especially those directly attributable to human activity.
In recent years, deaths have been caused by poaching (both with firearms and poisoned bait), disease, and accidental events.
So-called “habituated bears” — those that more readily approach humans and human activities — are the most exposed to poaching and therefore the most vulnerable.
A further source of disturbance, as assessed by various experts, is driven wild boar hunting carried out in certain areas adjacent to the park.
