Silent Presences: Exhibition on Large Carnivores in Lecce (17–19 April

Silent Presences: Exhibition on Large Carnivores in Lecce

When: 17–19 April 2026 • Where: Biblioteca Bernardini – Ex Convitto Palmieri, Sala del Teatrino, Piazzetta G. Carducci, Lecce. Free admission.

CAI Lecce presents the national exhibition "Silent Presences - The Large Carnivores in Italy", a scientific and photographic pathway exploring the natural return of the wolf and other emblematic species such as bears and lynx. The event combines informative panels with a technical conference to provide evidence-based information and counteract fear-driven narratives.

Confirmed programme (Lecce)

• Friday 17 April: conference "Spotted! The wolf between fake news, fear and science" (15:00) • exhibition opening 18:00–21:00.
• Saturday 18 April: exhibition open 10:30–14:00 and 15:00–20:00.
• Sunday 19 April: exhibition opening on this date cancelled due to reasons beyond the organisers' control.

The conference brings together researchers, practitioners and local stakeholders to discuss monitoring, management and behavioural guidelines for coexistence with large carnivores. Speakers include experts in environmental communication, biology and protected area management.

Second stop: Tricase (24–26 April 2026)

The exhibition will move to Tricase at the Scuderie di Palazzo Gallone from 24 to 26 April 2026, with an official opening on 24 April and visiting hours similar to the Lecce stop. The initiative engages local institutions to raise awareness of the ecological role of predators.

Why attend

• Learn from data and images about the natural return of the wolf in the Salento area.
• Get practical advice on coexistence, prevention and managing wildlife encounters.
• Support local biodiversity protection policies grounded in scientific knowledge.

Organisers: CAI Lecce. Free admission. For information: communications contact Antonietta Caragnano (CAI Lecce).