Stavanger Bay Life happened.

She came into the world as a tiny dark bundle wrapped in an assortment of goo. The infant had no understanding of what “wet” and “dry” were until the cold air of the den met her body. Crying out in protest against the unpleasant sensation, Liyanì squirmed and wriggled helplessly on the floor until her mother’s tongue was felt against her back. A gurgling coo escaped the babe’s toothless mouth as she welcomed the warmth. Her caregiver’s presence would quickly become a soothing source of comfort.

The second-born was soon nestled between two other furry bundles. Liyanì felt small alongside them, but was calmed by their scents that her bitty nostrils drew in. Despite her teeny size, the whelp nursed hungrily. She latched onto one of her mother’s teats for dear life and suckled away until the fullness of her belly lulled her into a dreamless slumber.