Reindeer hunting season concludes in Iceland with additional permits until November

The traditional reindeer hunting season has concluded for this year, although hunting for 24 additional animals is still permitted until November 20th, with specific applications required.

This year’s hunting period saw a notable focus on areas further north than usual. Challenging weather conditions, particularly fog and rain, hindered hunters in locating the animals. However, the weather improved significantly in the final days of the season, allowing many hunters to successfully find their game. The hunting season for male reindeer ended on September 15, while female reindeer could be harvested until September 20.

Of the 800 reindeer authorized for hunting, 769 were successfully taken, with seven still remaining—three males and four females. The Environment Agency of Iceland has indicated a substantial reindeer quota in recent years, aimed partly at addressing concerns among landowners regarding the animals’ presence in sheep farming areas.

As for the remaining animals, the authorized hunting until mid-November has raised discussions about the ongoing management of the reindeer population, especially given the mixed sentiments among property owners about their presence in certain areas.