Den stora älgvandringen i Höga Kusten

Älgvandringen i Höga Kusten har fascinerat människor i tusentals år. Älgen har satt spår i både naturen och människans berättelser och här följs dess vandring idag av tittare världen över.

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What is the moose migration?

 

The moose migration is the animals’ annual movement from their winter habitats in the forested inland to the richer grazing areas of summer. Here in the inland of the High Coast, it has been taking place for thousands of years, following the same routes through the landscape.

What has long been a natural and unquestioned part of this place has today become an award-winning slow TV phenomenon. Through live broadcasts, the migration is followed by viewers all over the world, turning something once shared locally into a moment we can now experience in real time.

The highlight everyone hopes to witness is their swim across the Ångerman River. It’s a reminder that the quietest moments can be truly spectacular, captivating both nature lovers and curious viewers around the globe.

How the moose migration became a global success

 

What is now followed by viewers around the world began as a local discovery.

Irene Hägglund and Kjell Mähler were the first to discover the moose migration in the 1990s, watching as the animals swam across the Ångerman River during April and May. They began documenting their observations, and eventually caught the attention of SVT.

This led to a feature on the programme “Mitt i naturen” (“In the Middle of Nature”), and in 2019 the full-scale broadcast of the Great Moose Migration was launched. Since then, it has become a major success with audiences and has also been awarded the prestigious Swedish TV prize Kristallen.

But the moose migration is more than just a TV programme. In chats and forums, viewers gather to follow, share, and experience the journey together. It has grown into a community shaped by the rhythm of nature.

At the same time, the migration itself is far older than the broadcasts. Moose have moved through this landscape for thousands of years, along the same routes that are still used today.

Interest has spread far beyond Sweden. Media outlets such as The New York Times, BBC, and The Guardian have highlighted the migration, and TV channels across several European countries have adapted the concept.

 

To respect the moose and avoid disturbing their migration, visits to the area are only encouraged from June onwards. This allows the migration to continue at its own pace, just as it always has.

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The moose migration

 

Here you can watch a clip from SVT’s previous broadcasts, showing the moose as they swim across the river.

 

Youtube video image

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FACTS ABOUT THE MOOSE

Scientific name: Alces alces

Sweden’s largest deer species
200–550 kg. Up to 230 cm at the shoulder. Bulls typically live around 10 years, while cows can live up to 30 years. 

Distribution:
The moose can be found across almost all of Sweden, except Gotland and southern Skåne. The species also inhabits large parts of the Northern Hemisphere, including North America, Russia, and northern Europe.

Status
The moose is currently classified as a species of least concern, but numbers are declining and it may risk becoming red-listed. Today, there are an estimated 300,000 to 400,000 moose in Sweden, making it one of the countries with the largest moose populations in the world.

Are moose dangerous?
Moose are generally calm and tend to avoid humans. Most encounters happen without issue. However, they are large and powerful animals. If they feel threatened, especially when with calves, they may defend themselves. Keep your distance, move calmly, and give the moose space.

Did you know?
• a moose can run up to 60 km/h
• it is a surprisingly strong swimmer and can dive for plants
• its antlers can weigh up to 20 kg and are shed every year

Source: WWF

Watch the moose migration here

 

This year’s broadcast starts on April 22 and runs for around two weeks, available to watch worldwide.

Keep an eye on SVT’s website for updates.

 

Watch the moose migration here

Need help planning your trip?

Planning a holiday isn’t always easy. Our tourist service is here to help you make the most of your time in the High Coast.Use our personal travel planner to create a trip tailored to your wishes and interests.

Personal vacation planner!

 

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