Two polar bear cubs were rejected by their mother after birth at Gelendzhik Safari Park in southern Russia. Their human foster mothers took over the rearing responsibilities.

Four foster mothers and two vets have been working 24/7 since the beginning of December to nurse the pair through the dangerous postnatal period.

The cubs were born to 7-year-old mother bear Seryozhka and 18-year-old father bear, Sedov.

The carers are making sure that their body temperature remains stable and they get enough food. They also give the cubs massages several times a day.

If everything goes well, they should start doubling in weight every couple of weeks. At three months old, they should be ready to venture outside.

(All photos via CFP)

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