Gävle's community has faced disappointment as the request for a protective hunt of cormorants in central areas, including Boulognerskogen and along Gavleån, was denied by the County Administrative Board.

The decision came as a result of the application failing to meet specific criteria required for approval.

This setback occurs amidst concerns over the cormorants, which are protected species, causing damage to natural habitats and depleting fish stocks.

The issue has been underscored by a sluggish start to this year's cormorant hunting season, with only one week left in the first hunting period.