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    Are there reindeer on the roads in Lapland?

    Driving safely among reindeer in the north.

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    Short answer

    Yes. Reindeer move freely in the reindeer herding area, which covers Lapland and parts of northern Finland. The Reindeer Herders' Association says there are about 200,000 reindeer in winter and up to 340,000 in summer, and roughly 4,000 reindeer are hit by vehicles each year. Collisions peak in November to January and in July and August. Slow down when you see reindeer near the road.

    Transport, roads, car rental

    Why

    1. The Reindeer Herders' Association counts about 4,000 reindeer collisions a year.
    2. The association gives about 200,000 reindeer in winter and up to 340,000 in summer.
    3. Collisions peak in early winter and in high summer, according to the association.

    Details

    Reindeer often stand on the road or walk along it and do not always move for cars. If one reindeer crosses, expect others to follow.

    Tip

    If you hit a reindeer, call 112. Every reindeer has an owner, and the collision must be reported.

    What may differ

    The figures come from the Reindeer Herders' Association's material on reindeer in traffic and may vary from year to year.

    Common misconception

    Reindeer are wild animals, so collisions do not need to be reported.

    What actually happens

    Every reindeer has an owner. Report any collision by calling 112.

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    Sources

    This answer is for reference only. Wildlife risks vary by region and season, so follow warning signs and local advice.

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      VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland tested six used E10-compatible cars from model years 1999–2010 in laboratory conditions in 2011.

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