Finland has re-authorised the hunting of wolves during 2026, thereby lifting the full protection measures that had been in place since 1973. Amendments to the Hunting Act have permitted a limited cull of wolves between 1 January and 10 February, in accordance with regional quotas set by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry.
Under the current quotas, at least 65 wolves can be killed during this winter season. Until now, shooting was only permitted in cases of immediate danger or significant property damage.
Official figures from the Natural Resources Institute Finland show that the country's wolf population is around 430, a 46 per cent increase on the previous year. The authorities cite more frequent encounters between people and wolves, as well as an increased risk to livestock, as the main reasons for the change.
