# Scandinavian wildlife-related traffic accidents

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/scandinavian-wildlife-related-traffic-accidents
> Updated: 2026-09-21T05:14:59.000Z. Sources: 7. Developments: 2.

Scandinavia is experiencing a rise in wildlife-related vehicle collisions. In Norway, Statistics Norway (SSB) reported that during the 2025-2026 hunting year, 8,527 animals—including moose, deer, roe deer, and wild reindeer—were struck by vehicles, averaging at least 23 incidents per day. The highest numbers of collisions were recorded in Innlandet and Trøndelag.

Similarly, Sweden has seen a 7 percent increase in wildlife traffic accidents during the first eight months of 2026 compared to the previous year. Experts from M Sverige suggest that approximately 70,000 wildlife accidents per year are becoming the “new normal,” driven by changing animal movement patterns and expanding wild boar populations. In the STO region, deer account for roughly 80 to 90 percent of collisions.

Recent data from Sweden highlights intensifying seasonal risks. Insurance company IF reports a significant rise in accidents across various municipalities; in Stenungsund, Tjörn, and Orust, 591 accidents were recorded in 2025, with Stenungsund reaching a decade-high. In Tidaholm, accidents hit a record high in 2025, exceeding eight incidents weekly during autumn. Roe deer remain the primary cause of these collisions nationwide.

Compounding these wildlife risks, the Swedish National Road and Transport Research Institute (VTI) warns that autumn leaves can become extremely slippery when wet or frozen, creating a surface “similar to ice.” In response, safety experts advise increased driver vigilance during twilight and autumn months, while VTI suggests municipalities implement weekly inspections to mitigate road friction hazards.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-21: Sweden faces rising autumn road hazards from leaves and wildlife

Sweden faces rising autumn road hazards, including slippery leaf-covered paths and a significant increase in wildlife collisions, particularly involving roe deer in regions like Stenungsund and Tidaholm.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/sweden-wildlife-traffic-accidents-continue-to-rise

### 2026-09-20: Norway reports high rates of wildlife-related vehicle collisions

Norway reports over 8,500 wildlife collisions in the 2025-2026 hunting year, averaging 23 incidents daily. Experts urge drivers to use high beams and stay alert as darkness increases animal activity.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/norway-reports-high-rates-of-wildlife-related-vehicle-collisions

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Cite as: Scandinavian wildlife-related traffic accidents. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/scandinavian-wildlife-related-traffic-accidents