Coexisting with large carnivores

Humans and large carnivores have always lived side by side in Finland. Attitudes towards predators vary from positive to negative. The myths and legends associated with large carnivores as well as ongoing dialogue about them have influenced attitudes and contributed to inciting fear of these animals.

In fables bears are sometimes depicted as the wisest and bravest of all beings, and other times they are merely dumb and plump. The wolf is often shown as a cruel beast. Even though the lynx is considered one of the most beautiful animals among the Finnish fauna, there aren't as many stories or beliefs about it as there are about the bear and the wolf. The wolverine is the least known of our large carnivores. It has been considered an evildoer in reindeer country, but elsewhere in Finland there aren't many stories or fables that feature the wolverine.

Predators are well represented in arts and crafts

A large bear with its left paw resting on the branch of a birch tree. Another birch tree is in the background. Bear. Photo: Eeva Pulkkinen.

The good and bad predator

Attitudes towards predators have always varied by species. The wise bear has been respected throughout the ages while people have rarely had anything good to say about the cruel wolf. Even though the world has changed, these ancient attitudes are still present in people's minds today. Rread a history of attitudes toward predators.


Art and craft

Large carnivores and their relationships with humans are depicted in a wide variety of books, films, music, dance and other forms of art. Predators have also inspired different kinds of craftsmen and craftswomen in various ways. Read about large carnivores in arts.

Gallery

Find photographs and videos of large carnivores and there way of living in different times of year in the Gallery.

The good and bad predator

Attitudes towards predators have always varied by species. The wise bear has been respected throughout the ages while people have rarely had anything good to say about the cruel wolf. Even though the world has changed, these ancient attitudes are still present in people's minds today.