Extremely icy conditions in Haparanda, Norrbotten, are forcing round-the-clock sanding. Small paths and tight areas must be re-sanded about every two hours as gravel quickly sinks into the ice.
Three reindeer were seen calmly moving through central Tornio, Finland, on Sunday, an unusual sight outside the reindeer-herding area; authorities say they likely crossed from Sweden and posed no danger.
Large numbers of geese are moving in from Russia, with barnacle geese drawing attention in Sea Lapland, where they are usually scarce. The article notes growing flocks on fields and renewed conflict with farmers over crop damage, especially in Karelia.
Sustained high temperatures have led to algal blooms at several sites in the Haparanda Archipelago, and local authorities are advising people to avoid bathing.
Ice cover over Finlands sea areas is very low. Experts warn that the ice is now very thin over sea, and with spring slowly arriving, the situation is not likely to improve.
A rare black stork that strayed to Tornio, Finland, was found emaciated, taken into care, and moved to a bird rehabilitation center in Oulu. Its recovery is expected to take at least two weeks while experts consider how and where to release it.
Observations From Members 
