1. Wolves (Canis lupus italicus): The Italian wolf is a subspecies of the gray wolf and can be found in the mountainous areas of southern Italy, particularly in the Apennines.
2. Wild Boar (Sus scrofa): Wild boar are common throughout Italy, including in southern regions, and they play an essential role in the local ecosystem as both herbivores and prey for other predators.
3. Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes): Red foxes are found throughout Italy and are known for their adaptability to different habitats, including forests, grasslands, and even urban areas.
4. European Hare (Lepus europaeus): These hare species are widespread across Europe, including in southern Italy, and they often inhabit open countryside, agricultural lands, and forests.
5. Stone Marten (Martes foina): Stone marten are common in southern Italy and can be found in forests, rocky habitats, and even urban environments. They are known for their arboreal nature and their fondness for fruits, eggs, and small animals.
6. European Otter (Lutra lutra): Otters are found in various aquatic ecosystems, including rivers, streams, and wetlands, and can be encountered in southern Italy. They are highly skilled swimmers and rely on clean water sources for hunting and living.
7. Wildcat (Felis silvestris): The European wildcat is present in southern Italy and inhabits various habitats like woodlands, scrublands, and even suburban regions. These wildcats are smaller than domestic cats and are solitary hunters.
8. Porcupine (Hystrix cristata): Porcupines are found in forested regions of southern Italy and are known for their defensive quills. They feed primarily on plant matter, fruits, and roots and are nocturnal animals.
9. Loggerhead Sea Turtle (Caretta caretta): The loggerhead sea turtle is found in the Mediterranean Sea and nests on beaches in southern Italy. They are endangered and face threats from human activities, such as habitat loss and accidental capture in fishing gear.
10. Flamingo (Phoenicopterus roseus): Flamingos are graceful waterbirds that can be spotted in some coastal areas and wetlands of southern Italy. They are known for their long legs, pink feathers, and specialized feeding behavior, where they filter small organisms from the water.