Walruses are iconic Arctic marine mammals, instantly recognizable by their immense size, prominent whiskers, and their impressive tusks. These distinctive features allow them to thrive in the harsh, icy environments of the Arctic and sub-Arctic regions. The tusks are a defining characteristic, often sparking curiosity about their nature and purpose.
The Definitive Answer: Yes, They Do!
Contrary to a common misconception, both male and female walruses possess tusks. These formidable structures are actually elongated canine teeth that grow continuously throughout the animal’s life. Walrus calves are born without visible tusks, which typically begin to erupt during their first summer or fall.
Tusk Differences Between Sexes
While both sexes have tusks, there are notable differences in their size, shape, and robustness. Male walrus tusks are generally longer, thicker, and more robust than those of females. Males’ tusks can reach lengths of up to 1 meter (39 inches), whereas female tusks are typically shorter, growing to about 80 centimeters (31.5 inches).
Males’ tusks also tend to be less curved and more widely spaced. Female tusks are usually more slender and can appear straighter. These distinctions in tusk morphology can often help in identifying the sex of an individual walrus.
Why Tusks Matter: Their Many Uses
Walrus tusks serve multiple functions essential for survival in their challenging Arctic habitat. They are used for hauling their massive bodies out of the water onto ice floes or land, acting like natural ice picks to gain purchase and leverage. Tusks also play a role in navigating icy waters by helping walruses create and maintain breathing holes through thin ice. They can repeatedly strike upward with their tusks to fracture ice from below, providing access to air and expanding their foraging range.
For feeding, walruses use their tusks to plow through seafloor sediment, dislodging clams and other benthic invertebrates. While not used for direct digging, tusks help expose prey hidden beneath the surface, working in conjunction with their sensitive whiskers. In terms of defense, tusks are formidable weapons against predators like polar bears and killer whales. When threatened, walruses may form protective circles with their tusks facing outward.
These tusks also play a significant social role, particularly in dominance displays among males during mating season. The size and condition of a walrus’s tusks can signal its age, health, and social status within the herd.