If you’ve ever spent time fishing in the icy waters off the coast of Labrador, Canada, spotting a seal perched on a drifting iceberg might not seem unusual. But what if the creature floating miles from land wasn’t a marine animal at all—but one that belonged on solid ground?
That’s exactly what happened to three local Labrador fishermen: Mallory Harrigan, Cliff Russell, and Alan Russell. During what started as a routine outing, the trio stumbled upon a sight they never expected—an arctic fox stranded on a floating iceberg far out at sea.
An Unforgettable Discovery in the Middle of the Ocean
At first glance, the fishermen assumed the small, gray creature atop the ice was a young seal. But as they drew closer, they realized the truth—it was actually a terrified arctic fox clinging to the slippery surface for dear life.
How did a land-dwelling fox end up adrift in the frigid Atlantic Ocean? The men speculated that the animal had ventured out onto the ice while hunting near the shoreline. Perhaps in pursuit of prey, the fox had wandered too far and become trapped when the ice broke away from land, sending it adrift with no way to return.
A Daring Rescue with a Heartwarming Twist
Determined to help, the fishermen carefully maneuvered their boat toward the drifting iceberg. They knew they had to act cautiously—any sudden movement might frighten the fox and send it plunging into the freezing water.
Despite being understandably frightened and resistant to human contact, the fox eventually allowed the men to bring him aboard. Cold, weak, and hungry, the little survivor was given the only food the fishermen had on hand: a can of Vienna sausages. It wasn’t much, but it was enough to revive his strength.
Safe at Last
Back on solid ground, the arctic fox was released near his natural habitat. Thanks to the kindness and quick thinking of these compassionate fishermen, he was given a second chance at life in the wild where he belongs.
