Young female Saimaa ringed seal dies after becoming trapped in fishing trap in Lake Saimaa

A young female Saimaa ringed seal has died after becoming trapped in a fishing trap in Lake Saimaa, according to Metsähallitus. The agency was notified of the deceased seal last Friday, August 30. The seal managed to enter the trap despite the presence of a barrier. This incident marks the second known drowning of a seal in a bottom trap equipped with such barriers; a similar case occurred last July when another dead Saimaa seal was found in a comparable trap.

The use of traps with barriers is allowed in fishing practices on Lake Saimaa. Metsähallitus has stated that this incident highlights the fact that traps commonly used in the region—despite their barriers—are not entirely safe for the seals. There is an urgent need for further developments to ensure the protection of these vulnerable marine animals.