In terms of wildlife, Sweden is generally considered safe, as are most of the Nordic countries.

However, as the region is home to a diverse ecosystem ranging from dense forests to expansive wetlands, there are a few animals that can pose a danger to humans.

READ MORE: The eight rules you need to follow when exploring Swedish nature

By being informed about these potentially dangerous animals and where they are typically found, you can ensure that your time in the great Swedish outdoors is not just enjoyable but also safe.

Wolves (central and northern Sweden)

While wolves generally avoid humans, they can pose a danger if they feel threatened or if they are protecting their territory or pack.

To be fair, it should be noted that there have been no attacks by a wolf in the wild in Sweden since 1821 – but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be careful.

There are an estimated 450 wolves in Sweden, and they’re more common in the country’s central regions (including Västmanland, Örebro, Värmland, Dalarna, and Gävleborg) and northern regions, although they are found in other parts of Sweden too.

You’re more likely to hear a wolf than see one, but if you’re travelling through an area known for having a wolf population, make sure you know what to do if you encounter one.

Wild boars (southern and central Sweden)

Widespread throughout the country, you’re most likely to meet this animal in Sweden’s southern and central parts.

Fully grown male wild boars can reach up to 1.8 metres in length, be 1.1 metres tall, and weigh around 200 kilograms. Females are slightly smaller and lighter.

They can be aggressive, especially if they feel cornered or their young are threatened.

Their tusks can inflict serious injuries, and many a Swedish hunter has been severely injured (or worse) in a wild boar-related incident.

It is generally recommended to avoid areas where they are known to be particularly active.

Brown bears (central and northern Sweden)

These large predators are generally shy and avoid humans, but they can become dangerous if surprised or if a mother bear feels her cubs are threatened.

According to the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency, there were approximately 2,800 bears in the country in the autumn of 2022.

They are considered the most dangerous animals in Sweden, as they’re the country’s largest predators.

In an interview with The Local earlier this year, Martin Källberg from Swedish hunting magazine Svensk Jakt, summed it up aptly: “An animal that can kill a moose with its mouth, you must have respect for that type of animal.”

EXPLAINED: What to do if you meet a bear in Sweden’s forests

Although attacks on humans are rare, they can be severe, and there have been numerous media reports of such cases over the years – especially in relation to hunts.

Bears are mainly found north of Dalarna and in Gävleborg, with the highest population in Jämtland, near the border with Norway.

Elk (throughout the country)

Sweden is home to one of the world’s highest concentrations of elk, with population estimates between 300,000 and 400,000.

Very large and commonly found throughout Sweden, elk can be aggressive, especially if they feel threatened or that their offspring are in danger.

Due to their size and weight, collisions with elk on roads can also be very dangerous, and traffic incidents involving these animals occur each year.

Bonus article: Whenever an elk makes the news on The Local, there is almost always a debate about whether the Swedish beast is indeed an elk… or a moose. The official verdict is elk – here’s why.

The European adder (throughout the country)

The European adder is the only venomous snake in Sweden, and it can be found across the country. While its bite isn’t fatal, it can be very painful.

Each year, around 400 patients are treated in Swedish hospitals for adder bites. Moderate to severe symptoms are observed in 20-30 percent of these cases.

As the Swedish Poisons Information Centre points out on its website, adder bites typically cause severe local pain, swelling, and bluish discolouration. However, in severe cases, early symptoms can also include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, breathing difficulties, low blood pressure, and reduced consciousness, among others.

To stay safe, watch your step in areas where these adders are known to live and wear sturdy boots when hiking.

You’re not very likely to see one, as they will typically disappear as people approach.

Ticks (forests and meadows throughout the country)

By far the smallest creature on this list, ticks can be found in forests, meadows, and grassy areas throughout Sweden. They are known to carry diseases such as Lyme disease and Tick-borne Encephalitis (TBE), which can both lead to severe consequences.

They are active when the temperature exceeds 5C but are most common during the summer months.

To prevent tick bites, use insect repellent, wear long sleeves and pants when hiking, and check your body for ticks after spending time outdoors.

The Local has an in-depth guide on how to avoid and protect yourself from ticks, where we cover the topic in more detail.

Honourable mention:

Lynx (southern, central, and northern Sweden)

While they might look intimidating, lynx are generally not considered dangerous to humans, as they are elusive and try to avoid human contact.

Lynx attacks on humans are extremely rare. They can be found in northern Sweden, in counties such as Norrbotten and Västerbotten, and in central Sweden, in Värmland, Dalarna, and Jämtland counties.

Although less common, lynx can also be found in some southern parts of the country, such as Skåne, Blekinge, and Småland.