About the Walrus

Walruses are large marine mammals found in the Arctic seas of the Northern Hemisphere. They are easily recognized by their tusks, whiskers, and bulky bodies. Walruses use their iconic tusks for a variety of purposes, including hauling themselves out of the water, breaking breathing holes in ice, and males use them in fighting for dominance. These social animals often haul out in large groups on ice floes or beaches. Walruses are excellent swimmers and divers, able to stay underwater for up to 30 minutes. They feed primarily on mollusks, which they find using their sensitive whiskers. Walruses play an important role in their Arctic ecosystems and are culturally significant to many Arctic indigenous peoples. Climate change poses a significant threat to walruses as it affects the sea ice they depend on for resting, breeding, and accessing feeding areas.