The northern Italian region of Trentino is taking new measures to combat the spread of the wild boar population. As part of a pilot project, bowhunting of the animals will be allowed from 2027.
July 4, 2026, 11:31 amJuly 4, 2026, 11:31 am
The aim is to contain the spread of the animals, which are increasingly damaging agricultural land. This was announced by the state government in Trent.
The wild boar population is to be contained in northern Italy.Image: Shutterstock
The core of the new regulation is the use of bows for wild boar control, as the state government further announced. According to the province, the bow could provide an alternative to firearms because the use of firearms can cause noise to disturb other animal species – especially during sensitive periods such as the breeding season.
Participation in bow hunting as part of the inspection requires appropriate additional qualifications. The prerequisite is that you already have existing approval as a wild boar control person.
In addition to the new form of hunting, Trentino is also introducing so-called “targeted control”. In the future, the Trentino Forestry Corps will organize operations together with qualified hunters. The coordination lies exclusively with the forestry staff.
problem for agriculture
The measure is not tied to regular hunting seasons. The state government says the aim is to create additional capacity to contain the species. The previous division into different control zones will remain in place.
Farmers in particular complain about the strong presence of wild boars in Trentino. “Not only wolves and bears, but also wild boars are becoming increasingly dangerous and problematic. “Those farmers who grow corn are particularly struggling with them,” complain the farmers’ associations.
There have been significant problems with wild boars in Italy for years, especially for farmers. The animals have multiplied significantly and are increasingly spreading into agricultural and sometimes even urban areas. Wild boar families can also often be seen on Rome’s outskirts. (dab/sda/apa)