Throughout the shallow depths of the Bering and Chukchi Seas in Alaska are massive marine mammals known for their impressive tusks, whiskered faces and distinctive personalities. In addition to some of their iconic features, Pacific walrus have unique characteristics that set them apart from fellow marine mammals.
Huddle up and read on for seven fun facts about Pacific walrus. There may be some that surprise you!
1. Walrus tusks have many purposes!
Yes, walrus do have tusks, which are overgrown teeth. Males’ tusks are longer than females and can reach over three feet in length. Walrus use their tusks to poke holes in the ice to breathe when they are underwater and to help pull themselves out of the water.
2. Walrus eat benthic organisms.
Benthic organisms are soft invertebrates found along the ocean floor. They include sea anemones, corals, sea urchins and shellfish, like crabs, clams and mussels. Walrus’ typically eat about 5% of their body weight per day. They will dive down to 200 feet and stay underwater for up to 30 minutes to find food!
3. A walrus mustache is made of sensitive whiskers.
Walrus can have up to 700 whiskers above their mouths. These marine mammals drag their snouts across the ocean floor and use these highly sensitive whiskers to detect their food.
They may just be looking for a snack, but walrus’ hunting and feeding process actually benefits the arctic environment. The disturbance on the sea floor releases nutrients into the water, which supports populations all the way up the food chain.
4. Walrus are very social animals!
Walrus often haul-out on land in large groups that can number in the thousands or more at a time! When the sea ice is too far out, the walrus haul-out on land for longer waiting for the ice to return.
5. Walrus make a variety of sounds and are very vocal pinnipeds.
These marine mammals communicate through vocalizations to establish relationships, send warnings and foster bonds between the mothers and calves. Walrus sounds include growls, clicks, barks, whistles and grunts.
6. Walrus can weigh the same as a small car!
Male walrus can weigh more than 3,000 pounds and calves reach 750 pounds by age two!
7. There are more than 200,000 Pacific walrus, and they’re in trouble.
Climate change is the greatest threat to walrus. Melting sea ice means more Pacific walrus are resting on land, which is further from their feeding grounds.
From their tusks to their diving skills and size, Pacific walrus are truly unique marine mammals. Join Defenders of Wildlife in advocating for less emissions and cleaner energy whenever possible to help walrus and other wildlife.
Author
Ragen Davey
Ragen Davey received her Master of Science degree in Environmental Chemistry
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