Wild reindeer hunting, 2008

Compared with 2004, 1 260 more wild reindeer were felled during the autumn of 2008. Out of a felling quota of 9 380 animals, 5 155 were felled. This results in a felling percentage of 55. In 2007, the felling quota was about the same, while the felling percentage was 50.

Still reduced felling on Hardangervidda

The Hardangervidda plateau is Norway's largest wild reindeer area. In the last part of the 1990s, 3 000-4 000 wild reindeer were felled in this area every year. Three years ago the wild reindeer in the Hardangervidda area were preserved except for one hunting ground. The preservation took place due to reduced stock of wild reindeer. In 2008, 667 animals were felled, a slight decrease from the previous year. The felling percentage was 44.

Highest felling in Rondane and Forelhogna

Most wild reindeer were felled in Rondane wild reindeer area. A total of 868 animals were shot this autumn, 21 fewer than in the previous year. Forelhogna had the highest yield increase. The number of felled animals rose from 652 last year to 796 in 2008.

Fewer reindeer hunters

Statistics on wild reindeer hunters in 2008 are published next year. Figures show that 7 850 hunters hunted wild reindeer in the autumn of 2007, a decrease of 200 from the year before.

Tables:

• Table 1 Wild reindeer felled, by age, sex and wild reindeer area. 1996-2008*
• Table 2 Wild reindeer hunting. Licences issued, animals felled and per cent felled. 1952-2008*