The Call of the Wild: A Journey into the Heart of Kehys-Kainuu

The Arctic has always been a place of extremes, a land where the sun never sets in summer and never rises in winter. As a former Arctic researcher, I’ve spent countless hours studying the impact of climate change in these polar regions. But this time, my journey was not about data or research. It was about capturing the raw, untamed beauty of the wilderness through the lens of my camera.

Kehys-Kainuu, a region known for its breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife, was my destination. The allure of photographing wolverines under the endless summer sun was irresistible. The thought of spending 24 hours in the wild, with the possibility of capturing these elusive creatures in their natural habitat, was a challenge I couldn’t resist.

As I arrived at the Bear Centre, the anticipation was palpable. The center is renowned for offering some of the best opportunities in the world to view wolverines safely at close quarters. With a probability of 80-90% to see and photograph a wolverine, the odds were in my favor. The hides, equipped with eye-level windows, promised an intimate perspective that few photographers ever experience.

The Dance of Light and Shadow

The transition into summer in Kehys-Kainuu is a spectacle in itself. The sun, a constant companion, casts a golden hue over the landscape, creating a surreal atmosphere. As I settled into my hide, the world outside seemed to come alive. The rustling of leaves, the distant call of birds, and the gentle breeze all played their part in this symphony of nature.

Hours passed, but time seemed irrelevant. The light, ever-changing, painted the forest in shades of gold and amber. It was during these moments of stillness that the wolverines made their appearance. Their movements were fluid, almost like a dance, as they foraged for food to feed their cubs. The eye-level windows offered a unique vantage point, allowing me to capture their every move with precision.

The experience was nothing short of magical. Each click of the shutter was a testament to the beauty and resilience of these creatures. The wolverines, with their thick fur and sharp claws, are perfectly adapted to this harsh environment. Watching them navigate the forest with such grace was a humbling experience.

A Symphony of Nature

As the hours turned into a day, the forest revealed its secrets. The wolverines were not the only stars of this show. Bears, too, made their presence known, their massive forms moving silently through the underbrush. The proximity of these magnificent creatures was both thrilling and terrifying.

The Bear Centre’s location, Kostamustie 5644, is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. The probability of seeing multiple wolverines and even bears at such close quarters is a rare opportunity. Some evenings, up to four wolverines can be seen at once, a sight that leaves even the most seasoned photographers in awe.

As my time in Kehys-Kainuu came to an end, I was left with a sense of fulfillment. The experience had been a reminder of the raw beauty and harshness of the Arctic, a place where nature reigns supreme. The photographs I captured were more than just images; they were stories of survival, resilience, and the delicate balance of life in the wild.

For those who seek adventure and the thrill of the unknown, Kehys-Kainuu offers an experience like no other. The chance to witness the dance of light and shadow, to capture the essence of the wild, is a journey worth taking. Wolverine Photography