Three Largha Seal Pups Rescued After Harsh Winter in Magadan

Three young largha seals now have a real chance at survival thanks to a swift rescue operation in Magadan. Yulia Melnikova, a senior engineer with the Federal Penitentiary Service, led the effort after spotting the first emaciated pup on May 2. Unusually warm winter conditions had left the animals struggling to feed and survive. The rescue began when Melnikova discovered a severely underweight harbour seal pup near Magadan on May 2. She immediately reached out to the Tulen Marine Mammal Rehabilitation Center in Primorye for expert advice. By the end of the same day, a second pup arrived in critical condition, followed shortly by a third.

Local volunteers joined the operation, and a specialist from the Tulen Center travelled to Magadan to train them. The team worked together to stabilise the pups, ensuring they received the care needed to recover. Melnikova later expressed her thanks to everyone involved in the life-saving mission. The three largha seal pups now remain under close observation as they regain strength. Their survival marks a rare success after a difficult winter disrupted their natural feeding patterns. The coordinated efforts of rescuers and experts gave the young seals a fighting chance at a full life.