A young Saimaa seal was reported dead after becoming entangled in a fishing net in Puumala, Finland, according to a statement from Metsähallitus. The incident, which occurred on February 18, marks the third recorded death of a Saimaa seal in fishing nets this year. The unfortunate seal weighed 27 kilograms and measured 90 centimeters in length, leading Metsähallitus to believe it was either a pup from the previous spring or a young individual.

The fishing net from which the seal was recovered was located within a fishing restriction area where net fishing is prohibited from mid-April to the end of June. However, according to Metsähallitus, the net was legally compliant with fishing regulations. Fishing with such gill nets is permitted in February in the area where the seal perished. This tragic event has raised concerns about the safety of Saimaa seals, particularly as it comes on the heels of other reported seal deaths due to fishing equipment.

The death of this seal adds to worries among conservationists, especially after recent news of significant efforts by local volunteers to assist in the population of Saimaa seals. The situation highlights the ongoing challenges faced by this vulnerable species against the backdrop of fishing practices and calls for increased awareness and potential policy changes to protect these seals in their natural habitat.