A dead Saimaa ringed seal pup has been found in Lappeenranta, Svenska Yle reported. The case is the eighth confirmed death involving the endangered seal species this year, adding to concern over the situation in Lake Saimaa.

Metsähallitus was informed of the previous dead Saimaa ringed seal only a week earlier. At this stage, no further details have been released about the circumstances of the latest finding.

The Saimaa ringed seal is one of Finland’s best-known conservation species, and each new death is a setback for the small population. The timing is especially sensitive in spring and early summer, when pups are already vulnerable.