Finnish Hunters’ Association campaigns for regulated wolf hunting amidst declining population in Finland

The Finnish Hunters’ Association has been actively campaigning about the dangers wolves pose to hunting dogs, aiming to promote regulated wolf hunting in Finland. The wolf population in the country has decreased compared to last year, with around 3,000 recorded sightings annually. Environmental experts report that only 0.1 percent of hunting dog fatalities are caused by large predators, with traffic being a significantly higher threat.

Recently, social media has seen a Finnish hunting dog’s obituary, claiming the dog was killed by a wolf during a joint hunting trip, a statement that has garnered attention from the Hunters’ Association. They have been sending out press releases regarding wolf attacks on dogs throughout the fall.

According to the Association’s director, as the areas with wolf presence expand, concerns over dog injuries are hindering hunting efforts in these regions. The campaign aims to advocate for regulated wolf hunting, which is also mentioned in the government program, though progress has not met hunters’ expectations.

Environmental lawyer Hannes Koljonen points out that hunters themselves pose a greater statistical threat to dogs than wolves, citing various causes of canine deaths, including accidents and traffic incidents. From 2015 to 2020, for instance, more dogs died due to accidents or were euthanized for behavior issues than those killed by wolves.

While risks do exist during hunting seasons, where dogs are unleashed in the woods, preventative measures such as specialized gear can help mitigate encounters with wolves. Koljonen urges for better care and safety for dogs, akin to how family members are treated, whether during hunts or at home.

Currently, wolves in Finland are strictly protected under EU legislation, and the population is estimated at 277 to 321 as of March, marking a roughly five percent decline from the previous year.