SOME HIGHLIGHTS

Bears, wolves, and wolverines are found in many parts of Sweden and Finland. Sometimes their paths cross—for example, when a moose, reindeer, or roe deer has died and the carcass attracts wild animals and birds. Much more occurs in areas where an entrepreneur has built photo hides and put out bait to attract the wildlife we want to photograph. In this particular area, this has been done for nearly 35 years, following the same routines, so the animals are well accustomed to the conditions.

For us photographers who want to capture both bears and wolves, the challenge has always been that the wolf is a wide-ranging animal, covering large territories from its den. Bears, on the other hand, often remain in areas where food is available. Some hide operators may occasionally get a wolf passing by their area once a season, but wolf appearances are generally sporadic.
With this operator in eastern Finland, however, the situation is quite the opposite. For several years now, a wolf territory has been established nearby, and the wolf family coexists with a large number of bears in the terrain in front of the hides. Here, bears and wolves often take turns appearing during the night.

Now, Wild Nature is once again arranging a photo tour to this unique area during a particularly exciting time of year. In late June, bear mothers with cubs start appearing in greater numbers. At the same time, the bear mating season is in full swing, meaning that males are on high alert, and females with cubs must be especially cautious to protect their young.
While the bears are caught up in mating behavior and vigilance, the wolf pack is simultaneously hunting for food for their pups, who at this time usually remain in the den. The alpha male, accompanied by one or more yearling wolves, prowls the area trying to snatch leftovers dropped by the bears. The animals are well aware of the hierarchy and power balance between them and generally respect it.
But sometimes, when food is scarce, challenges occur in front of the hides. Bears of similar size may test their strength against one another. Occasionally, the wolves employ tactics—one wolf makes a feint attack on a bear guarding food. As the bear turns to defend itself, another wolf seizes the chance to snatch the meat and run off with it.

At this time of year, just after midsummer, the hides are bathed in light almost around the clock, and we are ready with our cameras for about 14 hours each day. This usually results in a large number of photos each evening and night. We spend four nights in the hides. Even though we take turns keeping watch, after four nights of photography and observation, most participants feel it’s enough—for the moment.
Since October 2024, the hide area has been relocated. Due to the international situation, our local partner needed to move most hides slightly further from the Russian border. After testing the new areas, Wild Nature can confirm that the move has actually improved conditions, offering better terrain and new photographic opportunities.

In the mornings, we return to base camp for breakfast, rest, and image processing. Before heading out again for an early dinner and another hide session, we also run a short daily workshop. These sessions focus particularly on low-light photography, action shots, and making the most of your camera gear.

During the trip, a special “bonus workshop” will also be held, where wolf behavior will be compared with that of domestic dogs. Wild Nature’s tour leader, in addition to being an experienced sports and nature photographer, is also one of Sweden’s leading experts on canine mentality and behavior.