Published 05.03.2025

Can an entire wolf pack disappear without a trace from the Rotna territory in Finnskogen completely naturally? Unlikely, says the country's most renowned wolf researcher, Petter Wabakken. Now NMF is offering a reward to individuals who can provide tips that expose illegal wolf hunting and lead to the arrest and prosecution of poachers.

Wanished without a trace - researcher points to illegal hunting

The wolves in Norway’s oldest wolf territory, the Rotna territory, have disappeared, according to a preliminary report from Rovdata. Last year, there were eight wolves in the territory, where wolves have been present for over 40 years. All eight wolves were in the Rotna territory before the snow melted last year. This winter, there has been no trace of them, either in Norway or Sweden. Researcher Petter Wabakken, who has followed the wolf population in Norway for over 40 years, believes illegal killing is the most common cause of such disappearances.  

There have been no traces of the wolves elsewhere in Norway, and Swedish researchers have also not found any records of the pack. A new wolf pack has established itself in the southern parts of Innlandet, according to the latest registration this winter. "None of those who disappeared without a trace have reappeared alive in the 47 years I have researched wolves in Norway and Sweden." Together with other researchers, he presented the report "Shoot, shovel and shut up" in 2011. It showed that at least as many wolves die from illegal hunting as from legal hunting, being hit by cars, or being kicked to death by moose, says Wabakken. 

Økokrim investigates illegal hunting of predators

Økokrim is currently investigating the illegal killing of predators several miles south in the Glåmdal district. Six people were arrested in mid-January in connection with the investigation. Therefore, there is little doubt among us in NMF that illegal predator hunting is a major problem that must be addressed. 

In an effort to uncover who is hunting protected predators, NMF is offering a reward to individuals who provide information leading to the exposure of illegal wolf hunting and the conviction of those responsible. NMF also offers a similar reward for illegal bear hunting. 

Tips can be sent to nmf@nmf.no