Every spring, millions tune into a continuous livestream of the majestic elk as they embark on their annual migration in northern Sweden. Dubbed "The Great Moose Migration," this captivating show tracks these animals as they swim across the Angerman River in search of lush summer pastures. SVT Play, Sweden's national broadcasting platform, kicked off this year's 24-hour livestream a week earlier than usual due to the unseasonably warm weather in April.
Since its launch in 2019, this "slow TV" phenomenon has attracted a devoted audience. Regular viewer Cait Borjesson, 60, has become a fan since discovering the show during the pandemic. “It’s unbelievably relaxing,” she explained, noting she’d leave her TV running for 16 hours straight. For her and many others, tuning in has turned into a yearly ritual that feels therapeutic.
The livestream has gained a remarkable following with a Facebook group of over 77,000 fans sharing their favorite moments and emotional reactions. Goran Ericsson, a scientific advisor for the broadcast, noted that around 95% of the elk in northern Sweden migrate each year, and this phenomenon has historical roots that date back to the ice age.
Using more than 30 cameras, SVT captures the breathtaking landscapes as elk wander through the village of Kullberg. In a world craving the tranquility of nature, researchers reveal that viewers prefer the natural sounds to any added music or commentary, highlighting the powerful connection to the wild. In Sweden, which is home to approximately 300,000 elk, the animal is often referred to as the “King of the Forest.”
