A public event aims to make the public aware of the multiple ecological roles of the white-clawed crayfish, the threats to the survival of this unique subspecies of the Central Apennines and the commitment of organizations and entities to rewilding for its return to watercourses.

Funding from Fondation Ensemble will support the comeback of griffon vultures, Apennine chamois and white-clawed crayfish in the Central Apennines rewilding landscape. This contributes to the area’s overall rewilding vision and is good news for nature and people.

The Central Apennines are known for their diverse habitats and rich biodiversity, but despite this, there are places where the disappearance of certain species does not allow the ecosystem to manifest its full potential. The Apennine chamois (Rupicapra pyrenaica ornata) is one of these key species.

The white-clawed crayfish, which is a keystone species in freshwater ecosystems, is in decline across much of Europe. A positive feasibility study carried out on streams in the Central Apennines rewilding area means a restocking programme can now be carried out, thereby enhancing the ecological condition of these waterways.

Working to promote coexistence between Marsican brown bears and humans in five essential wildlife corridors, the Central Apennines rewilding team had a productive 2019. The team were encouraged in their efforts by a range of positive results and the record-breaking number of bear cubs born last year.