Rare twin sextuplets born to Saimaa ringed seal in eastern Finland

A Saimaa ringed seal named Hilima, the official animal of the South Savo region, has given birth to rare twin sextuplets, according to the South Savo Regional Council.

The mother and pups appear to be in good health. Hilima was observed nursing the twins on the shore of Lake Pihlajavesi after the ice melted unusually early this spring. Her life is monitored as part of conservation and research efforts for the endangered Saimaa ringed seal.

Researchers from the University of Eastern Finland confirmed the existence of the twin pups. Twin pregnancies are extremely rare among Saimaa ringed seals.

One of the pups has already largely shed its grey newborn fur, transitioning to the adult’s distinctive ringed pattern, while the other is still in the early stages of the change.