Which Arctic seal is the smallest of the true seals?

The ringed seal is the smallest of the true seals found in the Arctic.

Ringed seals usually measure about 1.2 to 1.5 metres long and weigh roughly 50 to 70 kilograms, although size varies by region and season. Their small bodies, thick blubber and dense fur help them survive in frigid waters and beneath sea ice.

The species is named for the pale ring-shaped markings on its dark coat. Ringed seals also maintain breathing holes in sea ice, often using their claws to keep openings from freezing shut. Females commonly give birth to a single white-coated pup in a snow lair above a breathing hole.

They are an important food source for polar bears, Arctic foxes and Inuit communities. The ringed seal is sometimes confused with the larger harbour seal or harp seal, but those species have different markings and generally reach greater adult sizes.