Predators in Finland’s Far East
Finland’s Boreal forests are home to some of Europe’s most sought after predators - combined with excellent light, this is a photographer’s dream destination.
Finland has gained a reputation in the last few years for its fantastic bear watching opportunities during the long summer evenings. However, there is one particular location where bears are only one of three large predators on offer – here you can also watch wolf and wolverine. This year was incredible for the sightings and the photographic opportunities on offer on our Boreal Predators Photography tour. On three of the four nights in the hides, there were sightings of all three species and the group were spoilt by the numerous encounters.
Having already had three productive evenings across several different locations, we decided to end the trip at ‘Paradise’, a large open area surrounded by old forest. It was a slow start to the evening with a couple of bears showing themselves, but always keeping their distance. Then, as the sun slowly moved down towards the treeline, the landscape came alive. First, a large bear appeared and put on quite a show in front of the hides, striding without fear across the open marshland with the occasional stumble on the boggy ground. Then the alpha male of the local wolf population decided to trot past within a 100 yards or so.
As these two beautiful mammals moved on, a lone wolverine appeared to the side of the hides, refusing to move into our line of sight. As it loped through the delicate white flowers of cotton grass, a young bear appeared on the edge of the treeline and moved into the open. The next couple of hours flew by as we were treated to a wonderful show.
A young wolf (which is new to the area) and the bear took it in turns to chase one another across the landscape, staking their claim to the reindeer carcass on offer – a rich reward for any predator in this vast landscape of lakes, rolling hills and near endless forest.
The group were left speechless, barely believing what they witnessed. For those that were privileged to watch this remarkable behaviour (including myself), the encounter will be one that they will never forget.
Be sure to join me to enjoy the wild delights of Finland’s Boreal Predators.
