Biologist Jaakko Junikka has voiced his frustration at the destruction of a protected habitat in central Finland, where a flying squirrel's nest was found in a felled tree. The flying squirrel relies on a network of trees for movement and requires cover from predators, and the removal of such trees could jeopardize its survival. Police in Central Finland are investigating to determine if a conservation crime has taken place at the site in Jyväskylä, as the actions contradict conservation laws designed to protect endangered species.

The investigation led by officer Heidi Miettinen aims to ascertain the legality of the clear-cutting that was approved earlier in 2023 by the Centre for Economic Development, Transport and the Environment (ELY) of Central Finland, which is the authority responsible for enforcing conservation laws. This raises questions about the decision-making process that led to the clearance of the area, particularly since Junikka, a former employee of the ELY center, suggests that the cleared area was critical for the flying squirrel’s movement to feeding grounds. The ELY center's actions are now under scrutiny amidst broader concerns about environmental policies and the enforcement of wildlife protections.

The flying squirrel is protected under the EU Nature Directive and Finnish conservation law, which aims to safeguard biodiversity and prevent the loss of endangered species like the flying squirrel. The controversy highlights the tension between forestry practices and conservation efforts in Finland, illustrating a critical need for more integrated approaches to land use that prioritize both ecological health and economic activities. The outcome of the investigation may set a precedent for future interactions between environmental regulations and land development projects across the country.