Wilderness in Sardinia
European Wilderness Society is running European Wilderness Network. And since one of our operating countries is Italy, we are investigating its Wilderness as well. And Sardinia Wilderness is one of them.
From 1500 to 1900, Sardinia underwent extensive deforestation. That process led to the disappearance of significant wilderness areas. Driven by agricultural expansion, timber extraction, and land use changes, this period saw large-scale clearing of forests, profoundly altering ecosystems. Historical accounts from Sardegna Ambiente and Mediterranean Online detail how these activities not only impacted biodiversity but also led to the reduction of pristine natural habitats across the island.
Sardinia’s wilderness in the past
Before 1500, Sardinia’s wilderness was characterized by dense forests, rugged mountains, and expansive wetlands. The island’s interior was largely untouched, it had ancient woodlands of cork oak, holm oak, and Mediterranean maquis. These areas were habitats for diverse wildlife, including wild boars, deer, and various bird species. Coastal regions featured unspoiled beaches and marshlands, while the mountainous terrains, such as the Gennargentu range, provided refuge for endemic flora and fauna. Human settlements were sparse, and the landscape was shaped by pastoralism and limited agriculture, preserving much of its natural beauty and biodiversity.
In that time, Sardinia was a home to several carnivorous species. Wolves roamed the forests and mountainous regions of Sardinia, preying on wild ungulates and smaller animals. Lynx inhabited the wooded areas, hunting deer and small mammals. Wildcats in the forests and scrublands, preying on rodents and birds. Various raptors, such as eagles, hawks, and owls, thrived in Sardinia’s diverse habitats, feeding on small mammals, birds, and reptiles.
These carnivores played a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of the island’s wilderness.
The fate of carnivores
Today, the presence of some of the historically noted carnivores in Sardinia has changed significantly primarily due to human activities and environmental changes: Wolves are now extinct in Sardinia. They disappeared due to habitat loss, hunting, and competition with humans. The Eurasian lynx is no longer found in Sardinia. Like wolves, they faced extinction on the island due to similar pressures of habitat destruction and hunting.
The Sardinian wildcat, a subspecies of the European wildcat, still survives on the island. These wildcats inhabit remote areas, although their numbers have declined due to hybridization with domestic cats and habitat loss. Various raptors, such as the Bonelli’s eagle and the Sardinian goshawk, still exist. Conservation efforts have helped maintain their populations, although some species remain at risk due to human activities and environmental changes.
Overall, while some of the historical carnivores no longer inhabit Sardinia, others have managed to survive, though often with reduced populations and in more restricted habitats.
Wilderness fragments
Despite ongoing environmental challenges, several wilderness and strict reserves in Sardinia continue to thrive and offer protection to the island’s natural heritage. Notable reserves include:
- Asinara National Park: Located on Asinara Island, this park is a haven for diverse wildlife, including the famous Albino donkeys. It features pristine beaches, clear waters, and untouched natural environments.
- Giara di Gesturi: A unique plateau known for its wild horses, this reserve is characterized by its distinct flora and fauna, including endemic plant species and rich archaeological sites.
- Monte Arcosu: Managed by WWF Italy, this reserve protects extensive forests of Mediterranean maquis. It is home to rare species like the Sardinian deer and provides a vital refuge for numerous birds and mammals.
- Molentargius-Saline Regional Park: Situated near Cagliari, this park encompasses salt flats and freshwater ponds, making it a critical habitat for flamingos and other bird species. It is a key site for birdwatching and wetland conservation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Sardinia’s rich carnivorous wildlife underwent significant changes from the Middle Ages to the early 20th century. While the wolves and Eurasian lynx disappeared largely by the early 1900s due to hunting and habitat loss, the Sardinian wildcat has persisted albeit with declining numbers. Birds of prey, though impacted, continue to inhabit the island, thanks in part to modern conservation efforts. The shifts in Sardinia’s carnivore populations highlight the profound effects of human activity on island ecosystems.
