Apennine Wolf
50% of youWolf
At the shoulder, this wolf is about half as tall as a 10-year-old child.
Photo: Stefano Corso (CC BY 2.0)
3 featured species ยท 3 habitat zones
Animals of Italy
Explore the wonderful animals that live in Italy, from the snowy Alps to the sunny beaches of Sicily! Italy has many different places where lots of animals can live happily. You might find special creatures here that you wonโt see anywhere else in the world. Come and learn about Italy's unique wildlife!
Featured Species
Test Your Knowledge
Habitat Zones
Alpine
These are high-altitude areas in Italy with cold temperatures and snow. The animals here have special adaptations to survive, like warm fur!
chamois, golden eagle, alpine marmot
Mediterranean
In these coastal areas, summers are warm and dry while winters are wet. Many animals love this climate!
European rabbit, Sardinian deer, Mediterranean monk seal
Woodland
In Italy's beautiful forests, many animals find food and shelter. These wooded areas are alive with wonderful creatures.
wild boar, common buzzard, Eurasian red squirrel
How Big Are They?
Each animal shown next to a 10-year-old (๐ง) at true scale.
Italian Wall Lizard
15% of youThis lizard is about as long as your hand.
Wild Boar
1ร youThis large mammal is about the size of a big dog.
Where to Spot Them
Apennine Wolf
Look in: They live in the Apennine Mountains.
Watch for: They are social animals and live in packs.
Italian Wall Lizard
Look in: These lizards are found throughout Italy.
Watch for: They are fast runners and excellent climbers.
Wild Boar
Look in: You can find them across wooded areas in Italy.
Watch for: They are very social and live in groups called sounders.
Cultural Connection
The Apennine Wolf is a much-loved symbol of Italy's wild mountains. It appears on emblems and in stories that celebrate the country's nature, and many Italians are proud of the work done to protect it.
Vocabulary
Did you know that wolves in Italy live in mountains while their relatives in the U.S. usually live in forests or prairies?
