Even in the intense cold, animals need to drink, but shaggy horse Kunduchene refuses to budge, unless escorted by Umka.

Smiling five-year-old saved by her dog too shy to speak about how she survived in wild infested with bears and wolves.

Helped by a ladder, an axe and a chainsaw.

Now the fun begins: tourists swimming in -60C and momentous meeting between the seasonal icons Chyskhaan and Grandfather Frost.

Yakutia in a white blanket as temperatures dip to minus 6C as winter 'comes too soon'.

Children aged 7 to 11 miss classes, but older students still expected to attend.

Video footage from Yakutia divides opinion: cruelty or necessary because predator was dangerous to people? Inquiry is underway.

Video shows how breeders corral the horses into the water, believing the island grass is more nutritious.