Astonishing Photo Showing a Man Feeding a Polar Bear and His Cubs with Milk, Russia, Late 1970s
In an era long before viral videos and social media, one man in Russia’s remote Chukotka region formed an unforgettable bond with not one, but two wild polar bears—including one he had raised from a cub. The now-famous photograph of a man feeding polar bears with condensed milk stands as a powerful reminder of the rare harmony that can exist between humans and nature.
This true story begins in December 1974, when a Chukchi hunter tragically killed a polar bear after it had damaged his tent. The bear had a cub—a young, helpless female later named Masha—who had not yet learned how to hunt or survive on her own. Her fate might have been sealed had it not been for the intervention of a compassionate man: Russian explorer Nikolai Machulyak.
From Orphan to Survivor: The Tale of Masha the Polar Bear
Nikolai Machulyak discovered the cub shortly after the incident and decided to care for her through the harsh Arctic winter. He fed her meat and sweetened condensed milk, a high-calorie, nutrient-rich food that Masha adored. The bond grew strong, but by the spring of 1975, Masha vanished into the wilderness.
Then, in February 1976, something remarkable happened. While exploring the outskirts of the town, Machulyak encountered a fully grown Masha, now weighing close to 150 kilograms. Despite the passage of time, she recognized him. Their emotional reunion was cemented when he resumed bringing her her favorite treat—condensed milk.
A Surprising New Friendship: Enter Mariya Mikhailovna
Things took an unexpected turn when Machulyak found another polar bear—much larger, weighing around 300 kilograms—living in Masha’s former den. It appeared that Masha had been displaced. Despite the risk, Machulyak began feeding both bears. The newcomer, who was later named Mariya Mikhailovna, also developed a gentle demeanor towards the man who brought food and companionship.
This unique interaction between a human and wild polar bears in Russia’s Chukotka wilderness drew public attention. Over the next few months, dozens of curious visitors came to witness the incredible sight. But with increased human activity came rising concerns about public safety. Eventually, at his wife’s urging, Machulyak stopped feeding the bears—a difficult but necessary decision to protect the local community.
Preserving the Past: The Legacy of Machulyak and the Polar Bears
This rare and moving story was later featured in the August 1, 1977 edition of the Russian magazine “Around the World”, under the title “Request for Friendship.” The publication included the now-iconic photograph of Machulyak feeding polar bears with condensed milk, a moment frozen in time that continues to resonate with wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and conservationists today.
Why This Story Still Matters Today
In today’s world of climate change, vanishing habitats, and endangered species, this true tale offers a poignant message about coexistence with wildlife. It also reminds us of the ethical challenges that arise when human kindness intersects with the wild. While feeding polar bears is neither recommended nor safe, Machulyak’s actions highlight an extraordinary moment in history—a testament to empathy, curiosity, and survival.
A Snapshot of Arctic History That Still Captivates the World
This astonishing photo of a man feeding polar bears with milk is more than just a historical curiosity—it’s a story of connection, compassion, and a glimpse into the Arctic world most of us will never experience firsthand. With keywords like condensed milk, Chukotka, wildlife photography, and polar bear rescue, this story continues to inspire and educate generations about the delicate relationship between man and nature.
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