Cute animals, not so cute problems or how citizen science can save baby seals

Cute animals often grab our attention, but the challenges they face are far from cute. The plight of the Saimaa ringed seal is a reminder that the beauty of wildlife is often overshadowed by the threats of climate change and pollution. Yet, what makes this story powerful is how ordinary people — “citizen scientists” — are stepping in to make a difference. It’s proof that climate action isn’t just for scientists and policymakers, it’s something everyone can be part of.

I finally put my XAMK Insider press card to use and attended an educational breakfast organized by the Aalto Sustainability Club, where Jari Ilmonen from Metsähallitus spoke about the endangered Saimaa freshwater seal. XAMK’s campuses are close to Lake Saimaa, and I’m sure many of you enjoy its beauty during good weather. Have you ever seen the Saimaa ringed seal?

With only about 500 seals left, they are critically endangered due to climate change and bycatch in fishing nets. Listening to Jari explain the situation made me realize just how serious things are for these seals — imagine, there are only around 500 left!

These seals rely on snow and ice to raise their pups. Mother seals build lairs in snowdrifts along the lake’s shores, providing warmth and protection from predators. But as winters get warmer and there’s less snow, the seals struggle to create these safe spaces. Many pups are exposed to the cold and other dangers, making their chances of survival slimmer each year.

As I listened, it hit me that you don’t have to be a scientist to help out — students like yourself, especially those living near Lake Saimaa, can make a difference too. For example, if you’re into diving, you could help monitor the seals’ underwater habitats, tracking changes in water quality that might affect them. Veterinary students can study how pollution impacts the seals’ health. Even photographers can contribute by documenting the seals, helping researchers keep track of the population.

For those of us living near Lake Saimaa, one of the best ways to get involved is by volunteering. Local conservation projects always need help building snowbanks, monitoring seal behavior, and protecting their habitats. It’s a great way to directly contribute to the seals’ survival while learning about local conservation efforts. Feel free to connect with Jari for more information or check their website https://www.metsa.fi/luonto-ja-kulttuuriperinto/lajien-suojelu/saimaannorppa/

As I left the event, I kept thinking about how saving the Saimaa seal is truly a team effort, just like any other sustainability challenge. Sustainability problems requires people with different skills working together. Citizen science is the perfect example of how diverse communities — from students and educators to international participants — can collaborate and make an impact. Through citizen science, we have the tools to address not-so-cute problems with creativity, compassion, and teamwork. Who knows, maybe our own students and teachers of XAMK could be part of the solution?

For more ideas and initiatives you can join, check the previous article: Elevate Your Resume with these 8 Citizen-Science Driven Online Initiatives

Written by Daria Chekalskaia, production assistant at XAMK and environmental engineering Alumni from XAMK.