Walruses are large marine mammals recognized by their prominent tusks and Arctic habitat. They are pinnipeds, a group of carnivorous aquatic mammals including seals and sea lions, with flipper-modified limbs. Adult males, particularly in the Pacific, can weigh over 2,000 kilograms (4,400 pounds), making them one of the largest pinniped species, second only to elephant seals.
Walrus Behavior in the Wild
Walruses are highly social animals, often forming large herds numbering in the hundreds or thousands. These gatherings, known as “haul-outs,” occur on sea ice or land, where animals huddle closely to conserve body heat. They communicate extensively through sounds like growls, barks, whistles, and bell-like sounds, used for attracting mates, warning of danger, and asserting dominance.
Both male and female walruses possess tusks, elongated canine teeth that grow throughout their lives. Tusks serve multiple functions, including helping them haul their bodies out of the water onto ice or land and creating breathing holes in ice sheets. They also use tusks for navigating and as defensive weapons against predators like polar bears and orcas, which primarily target calves or infirm animals.
Hierarchy within herds is often determined by tusk length, body size, and aggressiveness. During the breeding season (January to April), males display tusks and engage in physical confrontations to establish dominance and gain access to females. These interactions can lead to scars on the necks and shoulders of adult males.
Interactions with Humans
Walruses are wild, powerful animals and should not be considered friendly or approached closely by humans. Their immense size (males reaching over 3 meters/10 feet and weighing over a ton) combined with strong tusks presents a clear danger. Approaching a walrus, especially if it feels threatened or is protecting its young, can provoke a defensive attack.
While direct attacks on humans are uncommon, they can occur if walruses are disturbed or small boats are involved. Documented instances include capsizing boats and, rarely, causing fatalities. Maintain a safe distance from walruses for both human safety and animal well-being. Historically, walruses were extensively hunted for their meat, blubber, and tusks, leading to significant population reductions, but current conservation efforts focus on protecting them and limiting human impact.
Factors Influencing Walrus Temperament
Walrus behavior is driven by survival instincts, not a desire for human interaction. Maternal instinct is a significant factor, as female walruses are highly protective of their calves. A mother walrus will fiercely defend her young, making any close approach during this period particularly hazardous.
Territoriality also plays a role, especially for males during breeding season or when competing for prime haul-out locations. Crowded gatherings can lead to aggressive displays due to competition for space. Walruses are easily startled by perceived threats, including humans, vehicles, or other animals. Such disturbances can cause stampedes in crowded haul-outs, leading to the trampling of younger or weaker individuals.
Sea ice availability, impacted by climate change, also influences walrus behavior. As sea ice diminishes, walruses congregate in larger numbers on coastal land haul-outs, increasing stress and trampling risk. Their behavior is a reflection of their adaptations to a challenging Arctic environment, emphasizing their wild nature and the need for caution when in their vicinity.