Finland Grants Exceptional Permits for Bear Hunting in Eastern and Central Regions
The Finnish Wildlife Agency has approved exceptional permits for the hunting of 182 bears this autumn, targeting the eastern and central population management areas. The decision follows a Supreme Administrative Court ruling that allows proactive measures to address regional harm caused by the growing bear population (MTV Uutiset).
Of the 37 applications submitted, 17 were approved, while 20 were rejected due to insufficient grounds for granting permits (Yle). The permits aim to reduce bear-related safety risks and property damage, as outlined by the Wildlife Agency.
Regional Distribution of Permits
The majority of permits were allocated to North Karelia, where 118 bears may be hunted. Other regions with approved permits include:
- Southeast Finland: 24 bears
- South Savo: 14 bears
- Kainuu: 9 bears
- North Savo: 8 bears
- Central Finland: 9 bears
No permits were granted to Oulu, Ostrobothnia, or Northern Tavastia (Yle).
Bear Population Trends
Finland’s bear population has tripled since the early 2000s, with an estimated 2,201–2,962 bears outside the reindeer herding area (Yle). Within the reindeer herding zone, hunting is regulated by annual quotas set by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry. For the 2026–2027 season, the quota is 85 bears (MTV Uutiset).
The hunting season is set to begin on 20 August, though legal appeals may delay enforcement, as seen in previous years. The last time bears were hunted outside the reindeer herding area was in 2023 (Yle).