walrus

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Arctic marine carnivorous mammal Odobenus rosmarus of the same family (Otaridae) as the eared seals. It can reach 4 m/13 ft in length, and weigh up to 1,400 kg/3,000 lb. It has webbed flippers, a bristly moustache, and large tusks. It is gregarious except at breeding time and feeds mainly on molluscs. It has been hunted for its ivory tusks, hide, and blubber; the Alaskan walrus is close to extinction.

Walruses feed continuously for days at a time, after which they rest for several days. They need to eat 2,000–6,000 shellfish a day to remain healthy. Walruses feed on fish, shellfish, and other sea invertebrates such as crabs and squid, but they will also hunt and kill seals. Their lifespan is around 40 years, with females reaching sexual maturity at about six years, and males between seven and ten years. The gestation period is 15 months and females give birth to a single calf every third year. Calves are weaned at two years.

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