578B - Seals III - Walrus

The walrus (Odobenus rosmarus) is a large pinniped with distribution in the Arctic and sub-Arctic seas. Adult males reach a length of approx. 3 meters and weigh 800-1000 kg. The females are smaller. The most prominent feature of the walrus is its long tusks which can reach a length of 100 cm. The walrus occasionally catches fish but it grazes mainly along the sea bottom. Its only natural enemies are humans, killer whales and polar bears. Walrus can reach an age of around 50 years. In current times they are rare around Icelandic coasts but were much more frequent up until the 19th century.