The Walrus
 

This unique animal can weigh up to 1400 kgs and grow to be 3.5 metres in length. The male walrus is larger than the female. They are brown in color, but when wet they appear to be black.

They have wrinkled skin, a small head with powerful short limbs. Their flippers are textured, not smooth, and this helps the walrus to grip the ice. They also have tusks which protrude down from their mouth. The tusks are sometimes used for defence, or attacking a seal. They also help the walrus climb out of the ocean and onto an ice ledge. The walrus has a set of whiskers, which help the walrus feel for food.

They have are of course excellent swimmers, and dive to the bottom of the ocean to feed on molluscs. They will also eat fish if given the chance.

The walrus has only one natural predator: the killer whale. However, young calves are more susceptible to predators, and can often be taken by polar bears.

They usually live in herds, and lay about on the shore in their own separate groups. They have layers of thick skin and fat, and this shields the walrus from the cold when they lie on ice. The walrus is quite clumsy when on land.

The female walrus (cow) gives birth to a calf after 16 months. The calf is born on ice, and nursed for 2 years. They have a thin layer of blubber which aids in keeping body temperature warm, but they also have a thin coat of small hairs. The calf feeds from the mother, who protects it and teaches it the survival skill set necessary. The cow will take her calf swimming often.

During mating, the male walrus (bull) will be quite vocal. This can be due to competition amongst other bulls, and they will compete for the cow. The bulls have an air sack in their neck which when inflated, allows them to produce a loud bellowing sound.  

Further Information on the Walrus:

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