Kroshik, a seal who has resided at the “Friends of the Baltic Seal” Foundation for an extended period, has been moved to a floating enclosure on Lake Ladoga to assess his readiness for potential release into the wild. The relocation has sparked varied reactions, with some expressing enthusiasm and others raising concerns about the seal’s ability to adapt after years in captivity.

The “Friends of the Baltic Seal” Foundation announced the experimental relocation of Kroshik to Lake Ladoga on July 25, noting that his behavior had shifted over the past three to four years, becoming less sociable and more independent. The foundation aims to determine if Kroshik can successfully transition to a wild environment or if remaining at the foundation would be a better option for him.

A floating residence has been constructed for Kroshik on Lake Ladoga to facilitate this observation period. While many supporters have lauded the move as a positive step towards potential rewilding, some followers have voiced apprehension that a seal accustomed to human care may struggle to survive in the wild. Concerns have been raised about Kroshik’s ability to hunt and adapt to the natural environment after spending a significant portion of his life in captivity.

Biologist Pavel Glazkov has weighed in on the situation, praising the foundation’s approach. He emphasized that the “Friends of the Baltic Seal” Foundation is a rehabilitation center, not a zoo, and that assessing Kroshik’s ability to hunt independently is a crucial part of the rehabilitation process. Glazkov considers the foundation’s staff to be professionals and commends their initiative in creating the floating enclosure for Kroshik.

The foundation will be closely monitoring Kroshik’s progress as he adjusts to his new environment on Lake Ladoga. The goal is to determine whether he can successfully hunt for food and adapt to a more independent lifestyle, ultimately deciding if he is ready for full release into the wild or if continued care at the foundation is necessary. The foundation has not yet publicly addressed the specific plans for Kroshik’s future.