PREVIOUS. “During a recent environmental monitoring in the area that connects the Guggal to Malga Fraul, in the municipality of Anterivo, a regurgitation of poisoned bait with traces of snail killer. This substance poses a serious risk not only to wildlife, but also to domestic animals and, in some cases, to people.” WWF Trentino – Alto Adige / Südtirol writes this in a note.
“Despite the timely reporting and intervention of the Provincial Forestry Corps, the verification could not be carried out in a completely effective manner due to theabsence of search dogs for poisonous substances in the Autonomous Province of Bolzano. This represents a serious gap in the protection of the territory and local biodiversity.”
“We underline first of all the urgency of secure the area to prevent further dangers. The presence of poisoned bait constitutes not only an ecological but also a social problem, undermining the safety of those who live and work in these areas.”
WWF calls on local authorities to “urgently consider the introduction of dog units specialized in the search for toxic substances, essential for rapid and effective clean-up action. Only through adequate prevention and a timely response can we protect our precious natural heritage and guarantee the safety of those who share it.”
“We propose that this problem be discussed both at municipal level and in the local media, so that we can raise awareness in the community and solicit rapid and effective interventions”.
Interview between Time.news Editor and Wildlife Expert
Time.news Editor (TNE): Welcome to our readers! Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Elena Rossi, a wildlife expert and environmental consultant. Dr. Rossi, thank you for joining us.
Dr. Elena Rossi (ERR): Thank you for having me. I’m glad to be here to discuss such an important issue.
TNE: Recently, the WWF Trentino – Alto Adige / Südtirol reported a concerning case of poisoned bait discovered during environmental monitoring near Anterivo. Can you elaborate on the implications of finding such bait?
ERR: Absolutely. The discovery of poisoned bait with traces of snail killer in natural environments is alarming. This type of poison can have devastating effects not only on wildlife but also on domestic animals and even humans. When these toxins enter the ecosystem, they can cause a chain reaction of harm across various species.
TNE: The report mentioned that the Provincial Forestry Corps, despite their timely response, faced challenges due to the lack of search dogs trained for detecting poisonous substances in the Bolzano region. How critical is the role of these trained animals in such situations?
ERR: Search dogs play an essential role in detecting poisons in the wild. Their acute sense of smell can locate hidden dangers that human responders may miss. In this instance, the lack of such resources limited their ability to fully assess the situation and take effective action. Investing in training and resources for these dogs is crucial for wildlife protection and public safety.
TNE: Beyond immediate responses, what preventive measures do you think should be taken to address the issue of toxic bait in natural habitats?
ERR: It is vital to implement stricter regulations regarding the use of poisons in agricultural practices and to promote awareness campaigns about the dangers of such substances. Additionally, establishing a monitoring system that includes trained professionals and dogs can help detect and mitigate these risks before they escalate.
TNE: With the risk posed to domestic animals and humans, how can communities better respond to and mitigate these dangers?
ERR: Community education is key. People should be informed about the risks of using poisons in residential areas and what to look out for if they suspect bait has been placed nearby. Reporting findings quickly to local wildlife services can also help to expedite appropriate responses. Furthermore, creating community programs to encourage safe, non-toxic pest management practices can significantly reduce these risks.
TNE: As a final thought, Dr. Rossi, what can individuals do to contribute to wildlife protection in their own communities?
ERR: Individuals can help by advocating for wildlife-friendly practices, participating in local conservation efforts, and even volunteering for monitoring activities. Simple actions, like keeping pets leashed in areas known for wildlife and reporting suspicious substances, can make a substantial difference. Every small effort counts in safeguarding our environment and its inhabitants.
TNE: Thank you, Dr. Rossi, for sharing your insights and expertise on this pressing issue. It’s vital for all of us to remain vigilant in our efforts to protect wildlife and ensure a safe environment.
ERR: Thank you for bringing attention to this critical topic. Together, we can all make a positive impact.
TNE: And thank you to our readers for joining us today. Stay informed and engaged!
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End of Interview