Wild reindeer hunting, 2003

The Hardangervidda plateau is Norway's largest wild reindeer area. In this area the number of hunting licenses was reduced from 11 500 older animals in 2000 to 958 older animals in 2003. The main reason was that surveys have showed a reduced stock of wild reindeer. Many of the landowners wanted to preserve the wild reindeer on Hardangervidda this autumn, and they did not support the decision of the central management authorities to hunt on 958 wild reindeer. Not more than 133 wild reindeer were felled in the areas where the landowners allowed hunting.

Big reduction in Snøhetta

Snøhetta wild reindeer area reduced the felling quota by 64 per cent this autumn. This reindeer area is divided into two parts. The wild reindeer on the eastern part was preserved because surveys showed a reduced stock of animals. In Snøhetta West, 350 licenses were issued, and 190 animals were felled.

Good felling percentage in Forelhogna

Of similar reasons the felling quota of the Hardangervidda was also reduced. Licenses for a total of 400 animals were issued, and 362 animals were felled. The felling percentage has been stable around 90 per cent in recent years. One reason for this high percentage is the many "crossing agreements" made between landowners, who permit hunters to cross over to surrounding hunting fields, making hunting more efficient. This is particularly important when the wind has been blowing in the same direction for a longer period, causing many reindeer to congregate in one hunting area.

Most animals felled in Ottadalen

The area where most animals were shot was Ottadalen, with 1 055 reindeer. Measured by the total number of hunting licenses Setesdal Ryfylke, Rondane and Ottadalsområdet were the most important wild reindeer areas. Approximately 1 400 hunting licenses were issued in each of these areas.

Tables:

• Table 1 Wild reindeer hunting, by county. 2002 and 2003
• Table 2 Wild reindeer hunting. Wild reindeer area, by age and sex. 1996-2003
• Table 3 Wild reindeer hunting. Licences issued, animals felled and per cent felled. 1952-2003