Riistaeläimet

Riistaeläimet refers to wild animals that are legally huntable in Finland. This category encompasses a variety of species, primarily mammals and birds, which are managed under Finnish hunting laws. The term "riista" itself translates to "game" or "wild game."

The Finnish Game and Fisheries Research Institute (Luke) is responsible for researching and monitoring riistaeläimet populations. This research is crucial for sustainable hunting practices and biodiversity conservation. Different species have varying population statuses, and management plans are developed accordingly.

Commonly hunted mammals in Finland include moose (hirvi), white-tailed deer (valkohäntäpeura), roe deer (metsäkauris), wild boar (villisika), reindeer (poro) in designated areas, and various smaller game like hares (j-änikset) and foxes (ketut). Bird species that fall under the riistaeläimet classification include ducks (sorsat), geese (hanhet), willow grouse (riekko), capercaillie (teeri), black grouse (met-so), and hazel grouse (pyy).

Hunting seasons and quotas for each species are strictly regulated by the Finnish Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, based on scientific recommendations. These regulations aim to ensure that hunting does not threaten the long-term survival of the species. The concept of riistaeläimet is deeply intertwined with Finnish culture and traditions, as well as with rural economies.