A Growing Population of Wolves in Finland
Finland is experiencing a notable resurgence in its wolf population, with recent estimates from the Natural Resources Institute placing the number at approximately 430. This marks a significant uptick, particularly in the southwest region of the country.
According to the Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke), the wolf population has surged by around 46% since last year. As of March, the estimated count ranged between 413 and 465 wolves, with 430 being the most likely figure. Just a year prior, the population was pegged at about 295.
The increase in wolf presence has also been evident in the number of established territories. In March, Luke identified 76 Wolf Territories across Finland, a rise from about 62 a year earlier. Among these territories, the institute noted the existence of around 57 family packs and 19 pairs without cubs, including those in border regions.
Declines in Reindeer Herding Areas
The most significant growth of the wolf population has been concentrated in western Finland, particularly the southwest. However, concerningly, Luke reported no permanent wolf territories in the northern reindeer herding areas, which comprise roughly a third of Finland. Last autumn, there were indications of six packs or pairs in these regions, but by spring, 26 wolves had been culled under special permits.
Moreover, Luke’s review identified 19 solitary male wolves, with estimates suggesting that nine of them are likely still alive—seven roaming the southeast and two in western Finland.
Future Projections and Legal Considerations
Luke’s estimates are based on data collected in March when wolf numbers are at their lowest; as lead researcher Samu Mäntyniemi explains, pups are typically born after this time. “The population peaks in May and gradually decreases over the year. By November, the numbers still surpass those of March,” he adds. This year, Luke’s data collection was notably more robust than in previous years, incorporating public observations, DNA analysis, and other research resources.
Looking ahead, Luke anticipates further growth in the wolf population unless hunting regulations are adjusted. The institute projects a 10% increase in wolf numbers by next March compared to this past spring.
Recently, the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry has been drafting legislation to permit wolf hunting in Finland. Current laws allow for the culling of problem wolves, particularly in reindeer herding zones. Ministerial Advisor Sami Niemi stated during a press conference that the wolf population now reaches a level suitable for managed hunting, even as the species remains classified as critically endangered in Finland. While wolves occasionally target livestock and pets, they have not attacked a human in Finland since 1882.
In a controversial move, the European Parliament voted in May to relax the legal protections afforded to wolves, downgrading their status from “strictly protected” to “protected” under the EU’s Habitats Directive. This decision has drawn sharp criticism from conservation organizations, including the Finnish Association for Nature Conservation (FANC), raising concerns about the implications for both the species and its habitat.