Saimaa Ringed Seal

This small, round, ringed seal is Finland's very own native seal. You can learn more about the famous and protected Saimaa ringed seal at “Nestori”, the Savonlinna Provincial Museum located on Riihisaari island. Few people know that the Saimaa ringed seal is actually an Ice Age relic that was trapped and separated from all other species of seal due to post-glacial rebound around 8,000 years ago. If you take a trip to the Linnansaari National Park, you may get lucky and spot a Saimaa ringed seal sunbathing on a rock. Just remember not to disturb this endangered species!