The bodies of four wolves suspected to have been poisoned were found by passers-by close to a cycle path in the Italian Alps over the weekend, authorities in Trentino province reported on Monday.

The bodies are to undergo examination by vets to ascertain the cause of death.

It was simultaneously reported that a she-wolf that died in neighbouring South Tyrol province in September had probably been poisoned.

Final confirmation is still pending, and an investigation has been launched.

The wolves were believed to have been poisoned by residents who opposed their proliferation in the region.

There was an increasing concern in northern Italy over the presence of wolves and bears in woodlands.

Opponents said they posed a danger to people and domestic animals in a region with an economy heavily dependent on tourism.

Local councillor Roberto Failoni termed the killings “illegal poaching’’ and said the use of poison posed a danger to other animals, including dogs.

(dpa/NAN)