Police investigate destruction of protected goose nests in Lahti

Police in Lahti are investigating the deliberate destruction of barnacle goose nests on islands in Lake Vesijärvi as a wildlife crime, according to a report by Yle.

Twelve nests were found across two islands, with seven showing signs of damage—crushed eggs, dead goslings, or large rocks placed on top. The nests had been intact as recently as June 1, when researchers last visited to ring birds.

Esa Lammi, conservation officer for the Päijät-Häme Ornithological Society, described the act as systematic and intentional. The perpetrators had removed heavy stones from the ground and placed them on the nests, requiring access by boat. Lammi attributed the destruction to “goose hatred” but considered the chances of identifying those responsible as unlikely.

The barnacle goose is a protected species in Finland, and destroying its nests or killing the birds carries a fine of 237 euros. The ornithological society has filed a police report.