The walrus oosik, derived from the Iñupiaq word for the male organ, is the baculum, or penile bone, of the walrus. This unique skeletal structure is highly prized globally for its size and density, making it a distinctive medium for art and traditional tools. The oosik is the largest baculum found in any living mammal. Its value is rooted in its anatomical origin, physical properties as a carving material, and the strict legal framework governing its trade.
The Biological Definition and Function
The oosik is a form of baculum, a bone present in the penis of many placental mammals, though notably absent in humans. In the male walrus, this bone provides structural rigidity independent of blood pressure, which facilitates prolonged copulation. The baculum’s size is an adaptation to the walrus’s mating rituals in the harsh, frigid Arctic waters. A mature Pacific walrus can possess a baculum measuring up to 63 centimeters (25 inches) in length, making it the largest among all extant mammals.
Physical Characteristics and Material Properties
The oosik is a dense, elongated piece of bone, typically exhibiting a slight curve along its length. Modern specimens are creamy white to ivory, but fossilized oosiks, sometimes tens of thousands of years old, are darker and highly mineralized. These ancient specimens, which can exceed 1.4 meters (4.5 feet) in length from extinct walrus species, are particularly sought after by collectors. The inherent hardness and density distinguish the baculum from other bones, providing a stable, durable material that polishes well. This makes the oosik an ideal medium for fine carving and for fashioning implements requiring strength.
Cultural Significance and Traditional Uses
For Indigenous peoples of the Arctic, including the Iñupiat and Yup’ik, the oosik is a traditional byproduct of subsistence hunting. Historically, the dense bone was fashioned into practical tools, such as knife handles, spear points, and specialized clubs. In contemporary times, the oosik is a prominent medium for fine art, with Alaska Native artisans carving elaborate sculptures and decorative pieces. The sale of these carved artifacts provides a significant economic opportunity for coastal communities.
Legal Status and Ownership Rules
Walruses are protected in the United States under the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) of 1972, which places strict limitations on who can harvest and sell their parts. Only Alaska Natives who meet specific blood quantum requirements and reside in a coastal community are permitted to harvest walruses for subsistence and the creation of authentic handicrafts. Non-Native individuals may legally purchase these products only if the oosik has been substantially transformed into a genuine Native handicraft by an eligible Alaska Native artisan. It is illegal for a non-Native person to possess or sell raw, uncarved oosik harvested after 1972, or to transport the artifacts out of the country without proper permits. Furthermore, several US states have enacted broad ivory bans that do not exempt walrus oosik, creating legal confusion and potentially restricting the interstate sale of these federally protected Native crafts.