Petkeljärvi National Park

Birds

Petkeljärvi National Park is a paradise for birdwatchers, featuring a mix of forest, wetland, and lake habitats that attract a diverse array of avian species.

Black Woodpecker (Dryocopus martius)
This large woodpecker, with its striking black plumage and red crown, is a common sight in the park’s old-growth forests. It plays a vital role in creating nesting cavities used by other birds.

Common Crane (Grus grus)
A symbol of Finland’s wilderness, the common crane can be seen in the park’s wetlands during migration. These tall, elegant birds perform elaborate courtship dances in the spring.

Western Capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus)
One of Europe’s largest grouse species, the capercaillie is well adapted to the boreal forests. Males display impressive courtship rituals, fanning their tails and making deep, resonant calls.

Eurasian Eagle-Owl (Bubo bubo)
As one of the largest owl species in the world, the Eurasian eagle-owl is a formidable nocturnal hunter. It preys on small mammals and birds, using its powerful talons and keen eyesight.

Whooper Swan (Cygnus cygnus)
Finland’s national bird, the whooper swan, is frequently seen in the park’s lakes and ponds. Known for their loud, trumpet-like calls, these swans mate for life.

Osprey (Pandion haliaetus)
A skilled fish hunter, the osprey can often be seen soaring above the park’s lakes before diving to catch its prey. It builds large nests on tree tops and rocky outcrops.

Bohemian Waxwing (Bombycilla garrulus)
With its soft plumage and distinctive crest, the Bohemian waxwing is a winter visitor to the park. These birds feast on berries and are known for their social behavior.

Willow Ptarmigan (Lagopus lagopus)
This bird is well adapted to Finland’s harsh winters, with its seasonal plumage changing from brown in summer to white in winter. It thrives in the park’s shrubby and forested areas.

Great Grey Owl (Strix nebulosa)
A master of silent flight, the great grey owl is one of Finland’s most elusive birds of prey. It prefers dense forests and hunts small rodents in open meadows.

Northern Goshawk (Accipiter gentilis)
A powerful and agile hunter, the northern goshawk preys on birds and small mammals in the park’s dense woodlands. It is known for its rapid, surprise attacks on prey.

Petkeljärvi National Park offers a remarkable opportunity to experience Finland’s diverse wildlife, from its elusive predators to its magnificent bird species.

Popular

Petkeljärvi National Park, located in eastern Finland, is known for its pristine boreal forests, clear lakes, and rugged eskers. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including large mammals and smaller forest-dwelling species that thrive in its diverse ecosystems.

Brown Bear (Ursus arctos)
The brown bear, Finland’s largest carnivore, roams the deep forests of Petkeljärvi. Though rarely seen, these solitary animals play a crucial role in the ecosystem, feeding on berries, fish, and occasionally larger prey.

Eurasian Lynx (Lynx lynx)
This elusive feline is Finland’s only wild cat. It thrives in the dense woodlands of the park, preying on hares and small deer. Lynx are known for their keen eyesight and powerful hunting abilities.

Gray Wolf (Canis lupus)
A top predator in the park, the gray wolf hunts in packs, preying on deer and smaller mammals. Though sightings are rare, their howls can sometimes be heard echoing through the forests.

Moose (Alces alces)
The moose is one of the most iconic mammals in the Finnish wilderness. Towering over the undergrowth, these herbivores are commonly spotted near wetland areas, feeding on aquatic plants and shrubs.

Wolverine (Gulo gulo)
This powerful and tenacious predator is known for its ability to take down prey much larger than itself. Although wolverines are rare and highly elusive, they are an important part of the boreal ecosystem.

Raccoon Dog (Nyctereutes procyonoides)
Originally from East Asia, raccoon dogs have become common in Finnish forests. These nocturnal omnivores feed on small mammals, berries, and insects and are known for their thick fur and masked faces.

European Beaver (Castor fiber)
Beavers play a crucial role in shaping wetland habitats. Their dams and lodges can be found along the park’s lakes and rivers, providing shelter for a variety of aquatic species.

Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes)
This adaptable predator is a common sight in Petkeljärvi, scavenging for food in various habitats. With its striking red coat and bushy tail, the red fox is an iconic symbol of Finland’s wilderness.

European Roe Deer (Capreolus capreolus)
A smaller and more agile relative of the moose, the roe deer thrives in the park’s mixed forests and meadows. They are often seen grazing at dawn and dusk.

Otter (Lutra lutra)
The playful European otter inhabits the park’s rivers and lakes. A strong swimmer, it hunts fish and amphibians, using its streamlined body and webbed feet to navigate swiftly through the water.

Birds

Petkeljärvi National Park is a paradise for birdwatchers, featuring a mix of forest, wetland, and lake habitats that attract a diverse array of avian species.

Black Woodpecker (Dryocopus martius)
This large woodpecker, with its striking black plumage and red crown, is a common sight in the park’s old-growth forests. It plays a vital role in creating nesting cavities used by other birds.

Common Crane (Grus grus)
A symbol of Finland’s wilderness, the common crane can be seen in the park’s wetlands during migration. These tall, elegant birds perform elaborate courtship dances in the spring.

Western Capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus)
One of Europe’s largest grouse species, the capercaillie is well adapted to the boreal forests. Males display impressive courtship rituals, fanning their tails and making deep, resonant calls.

Eurasian Eagle-Owl (Bubo bubo)
As one of the largest owl species in the world, the Eurasian eagle-owl is a formidable nocturnal hunter. It preys on small mammals and birds, using its powerful talons and keen eyesight.

Whooper Swan (Cygnus cygnus)
Finland’s national bird, the whooper swan, is frequently seen in the park’s lakes and ponds. Known for their loud, trumpet-like calls, these swans mate for life.

Osprey (Pandion haliaetus)
A skilled fish hunter, the osprey can often be seen soaring above the park’s lakes before diving to catch its prey. It builds large nests on tree tops and rocky outcrops.

Bohemian Waxwing (Bombycilla garrulus)
With its soft plumage and distinctive crest, the Bohemian waxwing is a winter visitor to the park. These birds feast on berries and are known for their social behavior.

Willow Ptarmigan (Lagopus lagopus)
This bird is well adapted to Finland’s harsh winters, with its seasonal plumage changing from brown in summer to white in winter. It thrives in the park’s shrubby and forested areas.

Great Grey Owl (Strix nebulosa)
A master of silent flight, the great grey owl is one of Finland’s most elusive birds of prey. It prefers dense forests and hunts small rodents in open meadows.

Northern Goshawk (Accipiter gentilis)
A powerful and agile hunter, the northern goshawk preys on birds and small mammals in the park’s dense woodlands. It is known for its rapid, surprise attacks on prey.

Petkeljärvi National Park offers a remarkable opportunity to experience Finland’s diverse wildlife, from its elusive predators to its magnificent bird species.