Wolf cull reduces sightings in Kustavi

Wolf sightings in Kustavi have dropped this spring following a quota hunt that culled seven animals in the area, according to local residents and a report by Finland’s Natural Resources Institute.

The Kustavi quota zone saw seven wolves—three females and four males—killed in early 2026, with an additional two shot under police permits later in the winter. A recent institute assessment indicates the cull has halted the national wolf population’s growth.

Local farmer and MTK chair Antti Ääritalo estimates around ten wolves remain in the area. He noted fewer sightings in spring, though reports have risen again in summer as seasonal residents return, increasing human activity and observations.

Wildlife damage has continued this summer, according to local predator contact officers. Ääritalo supports continued culls, warning that surviving wolves may still breed. He points to nearby Taivassalo, where at least one litter, possibly two, has been confirmed.

Antti Pihlakoski, a Kustavi resident and international athletics official, lives in a forested area with a trail camera 100 metres from his home. This spring, the camera captured just one pair of wolves in April, down from previous years. He attributes the decline to the cull.

While Pihlakoski does not fear wolf attacks, family members now avoid berry-picking or mushroom foraging alone, and the family dog is no longer let loose. He supports managed hunting, comparing it to deer population control to prevent accidents.

Longtime summer resident Viivi Wallin, who has spent nearly 30 summers in Kustavi, reports wolves are rarely discussed among cottage owners. Inga Grönlund, a market vendor from neighbouring Taivassalo, frequently sees wolves and argues culls are necessary, questioning why wolves should inhabit areas where they encounter people.

Permanent residents express greater concern than summer visitors, with many seasonal cottage owners declining to comment, seeing the issue as distant.