Saimaa ringed seal (Pusa hispida saimensis) pictured at Lake Saimaa, Finland, on May 16th 2025. Photo: Jussi Nukari / Str / Lehtikuva
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Finland’s Baltic ringed seal population has increased fivefold since the 1970s, according to a new study by the University of Helsinki. The once highly endangered species now numbers an estimated 25,000 individuals, up from just 5,000 five decades ago.
Researchers attributed the population growth to two key factors: restrictions on hunting and bans on harmful environmental substances. These changes have allowed the seals’ reproductive capacity to return to normal levels, reversing a long period of decline.
The study found that continued population growth is possible, with a projected annual increase of around seven percent, but only if seal hunting is completely halted.
Despite the population recovery, Baltic ringed seals remain a target of regulated hunting in Finland. The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry sets seasonal quotas for both Baltic ringed seals and grey seals, with hunting permitted from April through December.
Last week, WWF Finland urged the government to reduce the proposed quota for Baltic ringed seals by half, citing conservation concerns and the need to protect fragile gains.
Public interest in the species has grown in recent years, in part due to WWF’s Norppalive live stream, which follows the lives of seals in their natural habitat. The stream has drawn more than 11 million views over the past nine years.
While the species no longer meets the criteria for severe endangerment, conservationists warn that policy choices made now will determine whether the recovery continues or stalls.
HT
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Source: www.helsinkitimes.fi
