Yes, there are predators in Lake Como, Italy. The region surrounding the lake is home to various wild animals, including bears and wolves. These predators have been making a return to the Alps since the turn of the century after an absence of 100 years.
Bears
Sightings
Bear sightings are restricted to the eastern side of the lake, particularly in locations along the Viandante hiking trail, which starts north of Lecco and extends to Colico. Notable sightings include evidence of bears in Somana (2012), Colico (2012), and the Valsassina (2013, 2015, and 2017).
Behavior
Bears are known to rear up on their hind legs to get a better view of potential threats but will generally retreat once they identify the threat. There have been no recorded cases of bears inflicting injuries on humans in over 150 years.
Wolves
Sightings
The first wolf sighting was in 2012 in the Parco Ticino, and a pack of five wolves was identified in the Valle Albano near Garzeno in 2015.
Habitat
Wolves inhabit the remote and mountainous areas around Lake Como, where they prey on deer and other wild animals.
Other Wildlife
Birds
The region is home to various bird species, including birds of prey and elegant water species, making it a great destination for birdwatchers.
Marmots
These small rodents can be found in the mountains, particularly in areas like the Grossglockner Alpine pass, where they have become accustomed to tourists.
Chamois
These agile mountain goats are common in the Alps and can be spotted with the help of binoculars.
Fire Salamanders
These salamanders are found in mossy and leafy forest floors and are known for their bright yellow spots and poisonous secretions.
Cryptid Legend: Lariosaurus (Lake Como Monster)
Legend
The Lariosaurus, also known as Larrie, is a legendary creature said to inhabit Lake Como. The legend started in 1946 with reports of a large, carnivorous marine reptile.
Sightings
There have been several reported sightings of the creature, including in 1946, 1957, and 2003, although these sightings are not scientifically confirmed.
References:
– https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g187834-i593-k3823975-Bellagio_Lake_Como_wildlife-Bellagio_Lake_Como_Lombardy.html
– https://comocompanion.com/2021/02/07/lake-comos-bears-wolves-and-werewolves/
– https://www.inghams.co.uk/walking-holidays/insider-guides/fauna-of-the-lakes-and-mountains
– https://lakecomotravel.com/lariosauro-lake-como-monster/