Dangerous wild animals?

Lynx, wolves, bears and wolverines

Predators are furtive and difficult to count. Their numbers vary from year to year. The county administrative board commissions a predatory animal count in the early spring. In 2014, there were an estimated 50 lynx in Värmland. There were at least 9 family groups. The number of wolves is estimated at around 200. There were 29 territories. Young male bears regularly visit Värmland. In 2017 a bear rejuvenation took place in northern Värmland, the first in many years. From 2014 wolverines was sighted in the northern parts of Värmland and rejuvenation has been observed.

None of the larger predatory animals appear to view us as prey and as such, have no reason to try to attack us. If you are out in the words, chatting, singing or making a noise with camping equipment, you will probably never encounter a wolf, lynx, wolverine or bear. Nor any other larger mammals, either. Especially not if the wind is behind you. If, against all odds, you do encounter a bear or wolf, make yourself known and calmly leave the location. The last time a wolf attacked a human in Sweden was in 1821. If you are a dog owner, there is an increased risk that your dog may be attacked. This is particularly the case if you are hunting with the dog or it is running loose some distance away from you in the forest. However, wolves react differently to the presence of dogs. Certain wolf packs have killed several dogs. Other wolf packs have never done this. (Source: De 5 stora website FAQ page)

Rovdjurscentret De 5 stora (5 large carnivores website) has useful information on our large carnivores in Swedish, English and German.

Elk, roe deer, red deer and wild boar

European elks, roe deer, red deer and wild boar cross roads without checking for traffic. There are thousands of road accidents involving wild animals in Sweden each year, resulting in serious injuries. Wild animals are most active at dusk. Take extra care if you see warning signs, animals often follow the same tracks. If you see one animal cross the road, it is most probable that there are other animals nearby. Red deer have been found in the southern parts of Värmland for several years.

If you do hit a wild animal, you must report this to the police, so they can deal with the animal. Call 112. Mark the location.

Ticks

Read more about tick bites in the Health care guide 1177. In Swedish only.

Bees & wasps

Read more about bee and wasp stings in the Health care guide 1177. In Swedish only.

Mosquitoes

In Sweden there are both mosquitoes and gnats. They do not spread diseases such as malaria, but bites are irritating. Biting mosquitoes are most active at dusk and are mainly found near wetlands, waterways and lakes.

Adders

Read more about adder bites in the Health care guide 1177. In Swedish only.