First observation of a reddish-coated Italian Wolf Canis lupus italicus Altobello 1921 in Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise National Park | Natural History Sciences

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Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise National Park

HYBRIDIZATION, ITALY, ITALIAN WOLF

First observation of a reddish-coated Italian Wolf Canis lupus italicus Altobello 1921 in Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise National Park (Carnivora: Canidae).
Bascucci T, Veronese A, Iannicca P, Magnaghi D, Romagnoli S. Natural History Sciences. 2026 Jul

ABSTRACT

During an observation in the Giovenco Valley (Abruzzo), an Italian wolf Canis lupus italicus displaying a reddish-orange coat was documented. The individual, a subadult male in good condition, showed typical morphological traits of the subspecies; however, the presence of free-ranging dogs in the area does not exclude a hybrid origin. Based on the literature, two hypotheses were proposed: a genetic mutation affecting coat pigmentation or wolf-dog hybridization. In the absence of clear diagnostic traits of hybridization, genetic analyses are therefore required. This case highlights the importance of monitoring hybridization and managing stray dog populations for the conservation of the Apennine wolf.