Seal report

Saimaa Ringed Seal Pups Born in Winter 2026

The mild and low-snow winter of 2026 made nesting difficult for the Saimaa ringed seal for the second consecutive year. Very few natural snowdrifts suitable for breeding formed, and the warm spring caused the snow and ice to melt exceptionally early. As a result, approximately 90% of the pups were born in artificial snowdrifts or man-made nest structures.

A total of 101 newborn pups were recorded during the spring nest surveys. So far, 12 of them have been confirmed dead. This exceptionally mild winter once again demonstrates the impacts of climate change in the Saimaa region. Reduced snow cover and a shorter winter season weaken breeding conditions for the Saimaa ringed seal and increase pup mortality risks.

In volunteer snowdrift-building events coordinated by Metsähallitus, volunteers constructed more than 400 artificial snowdrifts across Lake Saimaa. In addition, 47 artificial nesting structures were installed for the seals. Estimates suggest that up to 90% of the pups were either born in or sought shelter in these artificial snowdrifts and nest structures. Most of the resting dens used by adult seals were also located in these human-assisted structures.

During volunteer camps in Oravi, four artificial snowdrifts were built. Two of them were later found to contain breeding dens and signs of pups. The result was excellent, and warm thanks go to everyone who participated in the volunteer effort!

Metsähallitus Parks & Wildlife Finland is responsible for monitoring the Saimaa ringed seal population and implementing many conservation measures in cooperation with WWF Finland, the University of Eastern Finland, the Finnish Association for Nature Conservation, and hundreds of local volunteers. Nest surveys are used to monitor the size and distribution of the Saimaa ringed seal population, as well as the numbers of pups born and those that die before weaning age.

The 2026 population estimate for the Saimaa ringed seal will be published later in the autumn. At the same time, Metsähallitus will update the Norppatilanne (Seal Status) service with more detailed information on the use of artificial snowdrifts in different population monitoring areas.

Observed Pups by Population Monitoring Area