Hossa is situated inside the boreal vegetation zone dominated by coniferous forest, pine and spruce being the dominant trees that grow here. Pinewoods are the most typical types of forests while bilberries, lingonberries, different types of lichens and bryophytes cover the surface of the ground. Mixed forests where deciduous trees grow side by side with coniferous trees are also found and a few protected areas allow you to wander in a forest kept completely in a natural state. Bogs and mires are also an integral part of Hossa and the Kainuu region. In general, the environment can´t be described particularly lush, landscape is rather characterized by rugged beauty.

These different types of habitats provide home for the animals of the Taiga forest. Brown bears, mooses, foxes and reindeers are the most typical ones of the largest mammals. Besides brown bears, other large carnivores like wolves, wolverines and lynxes roam here out in the wild also. Smaller mammals like hares, pine martens, stoats, otters, beavers and squirrels are met too.

464 different species of birds have been found in Finland, most of them being migratory like swans, geese and other water birds. Of those that live here through the year, the golden eagle, several owls, a few species of falcon, capercaillie and different types of grouses are the ones that represent the exceptional adaption and survival in these extreme conditions. These birds are also seen on a regular basis while wandering out in the wilderness. From different types of edible mushrooms, the ones belonging to the boletus, lactarius, russula and cantharellus families are the most typical ones that are found here. Big variation of edible plants are found and several species of fish swim in our lakes and ponds.

Biodiversity isn´t as abundant as in many other countries but what we lose in the amount of species, we win with our vast wilderness areas, diverse habitats close to each other, purity of the nature and water, silence, remoteness and space.

Welcome to witness the Finnish wilderness with your own eyes!