The raccoon dog Nyctereutes procyonoides in Italy: a review of confirmed occurrences

Abstract

The raccoon dog Nyctereutes procyonoides is an Asian canid species which has been introduced to Europe for fur farming. Local escapes and the animal subsequent dispersal have triggered the establishment of self-sustaining populations, particularly in Eastern European countries, but with several populations in Southern Europe as well. Despite being listed amongst the alien species of European concern (EU Regulation 1143/2014), data on raccoon dog distribution in Southern Europe and in particular in Italy are still scanty. In this work, we reviewed all the available data of raccoon dog in Italy. Only five confirmed occurrences are available, suggesting that in this country the species may still be at the beginning of the establishment process.