Finland is home to a notable population of brown bears (Ursus arctos). The brown bear, Finland’s national animal since 2009, symbolizes strength, resilience, and a deep connection to the country’s wilderness.
The Brown Bear of Finland
Europe’s largest predator, the brown bear, is found in Finland. They possess thick fur, varying from dark to yellowish-brown, and distinctive small, round ears. Adult males are typically larger than females, weighing 100 to 300 kilograms and standing 90 to 125 centimeters at the shoulder.
Brown bears are omnivorous, with a varied diet adapting to seasonal availability. Their diet primarily consists of plant matter like berries, grains, and vegetation, but also includes fish, insects, birds, and small mammals. Meat can constitute about 30% of their intake, especially in spring when other food sources are less abundant. In colder months, brown bears hibernate in dens between September and March, emerging in spring.
Habitat and Distribution
Brown bears are found throughout most of Finland, except the Åland Islands. Strongest populations are concentrated in the eastern parts of the country and Lapland, particularly near the Russian border. These areas provide expansive forested landscapes and remote wilderness. While more prevalent in these regions, brown bears are also regularly observed in southern and western Finland. They generally prefer coniferous forests, which offer shelter and diverse food sources.
Population and Conservation
Finland’s brown bear population has shown a positive trend in recent years. Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke) estimated the population at 1,816 to 2,375 individuals before the autumn 2024 hunting season. More recent April 2025 data suggests an even higher estimate of around 2,400 bears. This population is monitored using a comprehensive approach, including sighting data, reproductive biology, lifespan information, and details from hunted bears.
In 2019, the brown bear was classified as “Near Threatened” (NT) by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) in Finland. This designation accounts for population size and immigration from neighboring regions. Brown bears have been a protected species in Finland since 1999. Hunting quotas regulate the population and mitigate potential conflicts, with the season typically beginning in late August. Reduced 2022 hunting quotas have contributed to recent growth in bear numbers.
Coexisting with Bears
Encounters between humans and bears are uncommon, as bears are typically shy and prefer to avoid people. To minimize encounter risk in bear habitat, make noise by talking or singing. This alerts bears to human presence. Proper food management is also important: do not feed bears and securely store or dispose of all waste, especially in wilderness areas or at summer cottages.
If a bear is sighted from a distance, calmly leave the area. Should a closer encounter occur, remain calm. Avoid shouting; instead, speak in a low, conversational tone.
Do not run, as bears are faster, nor attempt to climb a tree, as they are proficient climbers. Avoid direct eye contact, as it can be perceived as a challenge. Instead, slowly back away while facing the bear, appearing as large as possible. If a bear stands on its hind legs, it is usually assessing the situation, not preparing to attack. In the extremely rare event of a physical attack, lie on your stomach or in a fetal position, protecting your head and neck, and play dead. If cubs are observed, understand that the mother is almost certainly nearby. Immediately and calmly retreat in the direction from which you came. In Finland, carrying bear spray requires a license and may be subject to capacity limitations, making it generally unavailable for the average person.