Viktor Nikiforov, head of the WWF Polar Bear Patrol project, has known Ayon for five years. Photo by Varvara Semyonova

Ayon has grown over the past five years. Photo by Karen Movsisyan

Ayon’s friends from Arkhangelsk sent him seal blubber for his birthday. Photo by Andrei Boltunov

The breeding station staff received honorary diplomas for their contribution. Photo by Varvara Semyonova