Tampere launches hunting program to manage increasing roe deer population

The population of roe deer in Tampere has increased to such an extent that the city has decided to take action. Starting this fall, the municipality will collaborate with the local wildlife management association to initiate a hunting program within urban areas.

The growing deer population poses several issues, including traffic accidents and damage to residential gardens and yards. Jani Aho, a forestry expert from the city, noted that there are over a hundred deer-related accidents annually in Tampere. “It amounts to nearly one accident every three days, which is significant. Unfortunately, the numbers seem to be on the rise.”

While it’s challenging to determine the exact population of deer, it is clear from accident reports and observations that the number is too high in urban settings. The wildlife management association reports that the frequency of deer-related traffic incidents continues to increase this year.

Other cities have also recognized the challenges posed by deer and have initiated hunting plans; for instance, white-tailed deer are being hunted in Varsinais-Suomi. Helsinki has expressed interest in similar measures, and environmental expert Raimo Pakarinen confirmed that roe deer in the capital are causing comparable issues.

Various strategies are being considered to mitigate these problems, including erecting tall fences and conducting hunts. Hunting in Tampere is set to begin in mid-September, with initial activities planned near populated areas. Aho indicated that the specific number of deer to be hunted has not yet been established.

Residents living near hunting areas will receive notifications about the hunts and related sounds, while the hunting will occur in designated zones using bait to attract the deer. “We will ensure the process is discreet, and gunshots will be infrequent,” said Antti Lappalainen from the wildlife management association.