Finland’s vast forests, countless lakes, and extensive coastline create diverse habitats for a wide array of wildlife. Situated within the boreal zone, the country’s unique geography influences the animals that thrive within its borders. This northern landscape, with its distinct seasons and varied ecosystems, supports remarkable biodiversity, from large mammals to specialized aquatic species.
Terrestrial Mammals
Finland’s forests are home to several large mammalian predators. Brown bears, the national animal, roam widely, seeking berries, vegetation, and smaller animals. Wolves, social canids, and the elusive Eurasian lynx also inhabit these woodlands. The wolverine, a secretive member of the weasel family, has shown signs of reoccupying southern Finnish forests, indicating recovery from past declines.
Beyond these large carnivores, herbivores graze across Finland. Moose, known as elk in Europe, are seen in forests and wetlands, feeding on leaves, twigs, and aquatic plants. Reindeer, both wild and semi-domesticated, are prevalent in northern regions, adapted to foraging on shrubs and mosses in the tundra. Smaller mammals like red foxes, mountain hares, squirrels, and shrews also contribute to the forest ecosystem.
Avian Species
Finland serves as a significant breeding and resting ground for numerous avian species. Over 500 bird species have been recorded, with about 240 regularly breeding. Raptors include the White-tailed Eagle and Golden Eagle. Various owls, such as the Eurasian Eagle Owl and Great Grey Owl, inhabit the dense forests. The Eurasian Eagle Owl is Finland’s largest owl.
Waterfowl are abundant in Finland’s extensive lake systems and coastal areas, with the Whooper Swan, the national bird, being a key example. Other common water birds include various duck species. Forest birds like the Capercaillie, Black Grouse, and Hazel Grouse inhabit coniferous woodlands. Many species, such as the Willow Warbler and Common Chaffinch, are numerous in Finnish forests. Finland’s location also makes it a crucial migration pathway, especially for birds breeding in Northern Russia, with significant numbers passing through each spring and autumn.
Aquatic Inhabitants
Finland’s vast network of lakes, rivers, and Baltic Sea coastline support diverse aquatic life. Common fish include pike, perch, and zander. Salmon and trout are sought-after species in northern rivers. Whitefish and grayling are also widely distributed across Finnish waters.
A unique inhabitant is the Saimaa ringed seal, a freshwater species found exclusively in Lake Saimaa. This seal is one of the most endangered globally, with a population of approximately 495 individuals as of 2024. Conservation efforts are ongoing to protect this vulnerable population, addressing threats like fishing by-catch and habitat loss. The Baltic Sea also hosts other seal species, including the Baltic ringed seal, classified as threatened.
Smaller and Less Common Wildlife
Finland’s ecosystems host a range of reptiles and amphibians. The country has a limited number of reptile species, including three types of snakes: the common adder (Finland’s only venomous snake), the grass snake, and the rare smooth snake, primarily found in the Åland archipelago. Lizards include the viviparous lizard, which gives birth to live young, and the slow worm, a legless lizard often mistaken for a snake. All reptile species are legally protected.
Amphibians in Finland include the common frog, common toad, and moor frog, found in wetland and forest environments. Newts, such as the great crested newt and smooth newt, inhabit ponds and aquatic breeding sites. Beyond vertebrates, Finland’s natural areas are home to diverse insects, which play fundamental roles in pollination, decomposition, and as a food source for many other animals.