Four gray Baltic seals were released into the Gulf of Finland in anticipation of World Environment Day, as announced by the Baltic Seal Friends Foundation. The release marks the second such event this season, bringing the total number of seals returned to their natural habitat to 13.

The seal pups had been rescued from the shores of the Gulf of Finland after severe storms disrupted the ice floes where their mothers typically nurse them. One pup, discovered in Yermilovskaya Bay, suffered from a severe, infected wound likely caused by fishing nets or a ship propeller. Despite the severity of the injury, the pup was successfully treated and fully recovered, with only scars remaining.

All of the rescued seals underwent a two-month rehabilitation program. During this period, they received medical care, gained strength, and achieved the necessary weight for survival in the wild. The rehabilitated seals reached a weight of 35-40 kg and developed sufficient fat reserves to sustain themselves independently.

The initial rescue of these animals occurred in April, when they were found emaciated and unable to survive without assistance. Currently, the rehabilitation center is caring for 27 pinnipeds, including 16 gray seals, 5 Baltic ringed seals, and 6 Ladoga seals.