For thousands of years, Sweden's moose have followed the same paths to their summer pastures – and now we can follow them in real time. SVT's The Great Elk Migration has grown into a global "”slow TV”phenomenon and this year's broadcast is already in full swing. For those who want to meet the moose in real life, there are plenty of options - from city-center zoos to free roaming in forest environments.
Sweden's most peaceful live streaming show has started! The immensely popular The Great Elk Migration is back a week earlier than planned thanks to an unusually early spring. As temperatures rise in northern Sweden, the moose have begun their slow and majestic migration from the coastal forests to higher pastures inland – and we can follow!
The broadcast, which began on April 15, is broadcast live online through 32 cameras deployed in the wilds of the High Coast. Over the course of several weeks, viewers can follow the silent giants as they swim across rivers, traverse snow-covered paths, and occasionally stop to graze – or take a nap – right in front of the camera. It’s not just moose that appear in front of the camera, though. Bears, reindeer, birds of prey, otters, and even the shy capercaillie have made unexpected guest appearances over the years.
Since its premiere in 2019, the program has gained a devoted international audience and is now considered a classic in the so-called ”Slow TV genre.” In the US, among other things, The New York Times written about the program and the demand for calming content and nature experiences is increasing. In Finland, the program can be seen on YLE.
Wilderness meets Wellness
The moose migration usually peaks at the end of April, but this year the moose are already on the move. Last year, 87 moose were seen swimming through the river, but the numbers are secondary. A large part of the show's charm lies in the quiet calm, long takes on rivers, bare trees, changing light – and the sudden excitement when a moose steps into the frame. No narration. No music. Just nature, in real time – without a script.
From screen to forest: Here you can meet the moose for real
With an estimated population of around 300,000 moose, Sweden is one of the best countries in the world to see these magnificent animals in their natural habitat. For those who want to meet moose for real, there are plenty of opportunities, even in the big cities:
• Skansen, Stockholm Meet moose and other Nordic animals in a historic outdoor environment in the middle of the capital.
• Castle Forest, Gothenburg One of the few city parks in Sweden with a free zoo.
• Wrågården Hotel, Falköping Stay in cabins shaped like moose inside a moose enclosure.
• Moose Garden, Jamtland A combination of sanctuary and education center where visitors can feed, walk with and learn more about the importance of moose in Swedish nature.
• Skullaryd Moose Park, Småland Join us on a guided tour among freely roaming moose and red deer in a forest environment that is suitable for the whole family.
For those who want to experience adventure, there are also a number of options for eco-labeledwilderness safaris. Accompanied by experienced guides, guests can track moose, beaver or bear, sleep in camouflaged huts and learn traditional survival skills such as making fire and finding edible plants. Many of the tours are certified with Nature's Best, a quality label for sustainable tourism and biodiversity conservation
