Finland is a high-latitude nation defined by its vast boreal forests (taiga) and an extensive network of freshwater lakes and coastline. Stretching from the temperate south toward the Arctic Circle, the country experiences long, severely cold winters followed by short, intensely bright summers. This dramatic seasonal cycle has shaped a unique biodiversity, favoring species adapted for surviving deep snow, frozen waters, and significant temperature fluctuations. The wildlife here, from massive terrestrial mammals to specialized aquatic inhabitants, is perfectly suited to this northern environment.
Iconic Large Mammals of the Finnish Wilderness
Finland is home to the “Big Four” carnivores of Europe. The Brown Bear (Ursus arctos), the country’s national animal, is found in the remote forests of eastern Finland and Lapland. These powerful omnivores are solitary, spending winter in hibernation and emerging in late spring to forage.
The Eurasian Elk, commonly known as moose (Alces alces), is the largest and most widely recognized herbivore. The winter population, typically around 100,000 animals, is managed through licensed hunting. This control mitigates browsing damage to young forests and reduces traffic accidents.
The Wolf (Canis lupus) and the Eurasian Lynx (Lynx lynx) are elusive predators that regulate herbivore populations. Wolves are highly social canines often ranging across the eastern border. The Lynx, the only wild feline in Finland, is a solitary hunter, mostly sighted in the southern and central parts of the country.
The Wolverine (Gulo gulo) is the rarest large carnivore, inhabiting the eastern and northern regions. Its ability to move efficiently across deep snow gives it an advantage when preying on larger animals during winter. The Wild Forest Reindeer (Rangifer tarandus fennicus) is a distinct cervid subspecies found only in the dense taiga of areas like Kainuu and North Karelia. This subspecies is larger than the semi-domesticated mountain reindeer, and its small population is a conservation priority.
Avian Life in the Taiga and Arctic
Finland’s vast forests and open fells support a diverse range of bird species specializing in boreal and subarctic zones. The Whooper Swan (Cygnus cygnus), the national bird, breeds in marshy ponds and lake bays. Its population has recovered significantly since the mid-20th century, with around 10,000 breeding pairs nesting in Finland before migrating to overwinter in Western Europe.
Deep within the taiga’s mature forests is the Western Capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus), the largest European grouse. This sedentary species requires large patches of old-growth forest, and its population has declined due to changes in forest management. The male Capercaillie is known for its elaborate courtship display at traditional mating grounds called leks.
Large raptors, such as the Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos), patrol the northern fells and wilderness areas. The Eurasian Eagle-Owl (Bubo bubo), one of the largest owls, primarily inhabits rocky areas and vast forests. Other northern forest birds, like the Siberian Jay (Perisoreus infaustus), are known for their tameness.
Aquatic Inhabitants of Lakes and the Baltic Sea
Finland’s freshwater environment and the brackish Baltic Sea harbor unique aquatic life. The centerpiece is the Saimaa Ringed Seal (Pusa hispida saimensis), one of the world’s most endangered and specialized seal subspecies. This seal is endemic to the fragmented waters of Lake Saimaa, representing Finland’s only endemic mammal.
The Saimaa Ringed Seal is a relic from the last Ice Age, isolated in the lake system approximately 8,000 years ago. Its small population is currently estimated at around 500 individuals. The seal relies on sufficient snow and ice cover to build lairs for giving birth, making it vulnerable to climate change.
The Baltic Sea has low salinity due to vast freshwater runoff and supports the Baltic Ringed Seal (Pusa hispida botnica), a different subspecies adapted to this brackish environment. The extensive network of lakes and rivers is also home to economically important fish species. Pike (Esox lucius) and Perch (Perca fluviatilis) are widespread throughout the freshwater systems.
Migratory species like Atlantic Salmon and various Trout utilize the rivers that flow to the sea, and their populations are managed for sustainability. The low salinity and vulnerability to eutrophication make the Baltic Sea ecosystem a fragile habitat, requiring continuous conservation efforts.