Scientific Classification
Scientific Name
Odobenus rosmarus
Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Chordata
Class
Mammalia
Order
Carnivora
Parvorder
Pinnipedia
Family
Odobenidae
Genus
Odobenus
Species
Odobenus rosmarus
All About Walrus
Description
The walrus is a large Arctic marine mammal known for its long tusks, thick whiskers, and heavy body.
Appearance
It has wrinkled brown or pink skin, long tusks, and thick whiskers.
Size
2.2 to 3.5 meters long.
Weight
Male: 800 to 1,700 kg
Female: 400 to 1,200 kg
Diet
Clams, mollusks, crabs, shrimp, and small fish.
Range
Arctic Ocean, Alaska, Russia, Greenland, and Canada.
Habitat
They prefer shallow coastal waters, sea ice, and beaches where they can rest between feeding trips.
Behavior
Social animals that live in groups and rest on ice or shores.
Swimming Speed
Around 7 km/h.
Reproduction
Breeding usually occurs from January to March. Females normally give birth to one calf.
Gestation Period
15 to 16 months.
Predators
Polar bears and orcas.
Threats
Climate change, hunting, pollution, and habitat loss.
Lifespan
20 to 30 years.
Conservation Status
Vulnerable.
Walrus Interesting Facts
- Both male and female walruses have tusks.
- Tusks can grow up to 1 meter long.
- Their whiskers are highly sensitive.
- Walruses can sleep in water using throat air sacs for floating.
- They can dive deeper than 500 meters.
- Walruses often gather in groups of thousands.
- Their thick blubber keeps them warm in freezing water.
- Walruses are one of the largest pinnipeds in the world.
