License culling

Quota-regulated culling of predators such as lynx, wolverine, wolf, and bear. Requires registration as a license hunter.

License culling is the Norwegian system for regulated hunting of the four large predators: lynx, wolverine, wolf, and bear. The system differs from regular hunting in that the predator management board sets a quota, and the hunt closes as soon as the quota is filled.

To participate, you must register as a license hunter in the Hunter Registry at the Norwegian Environment Agency. You need a paid hunting license and a passed shooting test for big game. Registration is free and valid for one hunting year.

Lynx is the most commonly culled species through license culling. The hunting season is February 1 to March 31, and tracking in snow is the most common method. Wolverine is primarily culled through damage permits (outside regular hunting), but also has a license culling period. Wolf has very limited quotas, and the hunt takes place in designated wolf zones. Bear has a license culling period from August 21 to October 15.

Quotas are set based on population targets adopted by the Norwegian Parliament. The predator management board in each of the eight predator regions distributes the quota locally. When the last animal in the quota is taken, the hunt closes with immediate effect. You are personally responsible for checking whether the quota is still open before heading out.

All culling must be reported immediately. The animal must not be moved before the Norwegian Nature Inspectorate (SNO) has inspected the kill site. SNO takes samples and documents the culling.

License culling is politically contentious in Norway. Wolf hunting regularly ends up in the court system, and quotas can be halted by the courts. Stay updated through the Norwegian Environment Agency's website.