Protection of species

Some Swedish species are protected under different international and national laws and conventions.

Different laws and protection

All wild mammals and birds are protected for example through the hunting legislation, with the exception of some animals that are hunted at certain times of the year. Fish as well as aquatic crustaceans and molluscs, for example mussels and snails, are protected by the fishery legislation. Certain animals and plants can be protected under the Swedish Environmental Code. Sweden’s orchids are for example protected by law.
Areas can also be set aside as nature reserves with the aim to conserve biodiversity including natural environments and habitats for endangered animal and plant species. Smaller areas of comparative value can be set-aside as biotope protection areas. An animal or plant protection area can be created to restrict the rights to hunt and fish or restrict the rights of public or landowner access to the area. This can be the case with especially sensitive bird nesting areas and seal sanctuaries.