Where are Walrus found in the wild?

Walruses prefer the icy waters of the Arctic and sub-Arctic regions. You can often find them on sea ice in areas like the Bering Sea, the Chukchi Sea, and around the northern coasts of Canada and Russia, where they can bask in the sun and socialize with fellow walruses.

"Pacific Walrus - Bull (8247646168) cropped" by Remove 'cropped' from file name and see original file is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Walrus

Unravel the mysteries of the sleek, tusked giants of the sea!

"Pacific Walrus - Bull (8247646168) cropped" by Remove 'cropped' from file name and see original file is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

The Basics

Scientific Name

Odobenus rosmarus

Conservation Status

Vulnerable

Location

Arctic Ocean and sub-Arctic regions

Average size

10 to 12 feet long

diet

Clams, mollusks, and small fish

lifespan

20 to 30 years

Let’s Explore

Overview

The walrus is a remarkable marine mammal known for its impressive tusks and blubbery body. They can grow to be about 3 to 3.6 meters (10 to 12 feet) long, making them a sight to behold in the chilly ocean waters.
Walruses belong to the family Odobenidae and are related to seals and sea lions. Their scientific name, Odobenus rosmarus, comes from their unique tusks that can reach lengths of about 1 meter (3.3 feet) and help them haul their hefty bodies up onto ice.
These gentle giants primarily munch on clams, mollusks, and small fish. Walruses use their sensitive mustache-like whiskers to find food on the ocean floor, demonstrating their incredible sense of touch!
Walruses are social animals that often gather in large groups known as herds. You can find them lounging on ice floes, where they enjoy sunbathing and socializing with their buddies.
With a lifespan of 20 to 30 years, walruses can be quite the seasoned sea veterans. They experience many adventures in their lifetime, showcasing their playful personalities and unique behaviors.
Always on the lookout for adventure, walruses are excellent swimmers. They can dive to depths of over 80 meters (260 feet) and hold their breath for up to 30 minutes while searching for their favorite snacks!

Where can you find a Walrus in the wild?

What does a Walrus eat?

How big can a Walrus grow?

How long does a Walrus typically live?

What is the conservation status of the Walrus?

What are the main threats to the Walrus?

wowzerful facts

Walruses can hold their breath for up to 30 minutes while diving for food, like underwater superheroes hunting for tasty clams!

These gentle giants have toasty blubber that can be up to 15 centimeters (6 inches) thick, keeping them warm in icy waters. Talk about an extreme winter coat!

Walruses love to socialize! They often gather in herds of up to 100 animals or more, chattering and playing together like a big, happy family reunion.

A walrus’s tusks can grow as long as 1 meter (3.3 feet). They use them for climbing onto ice, but they also show off their tusks to impress friends!

Male walruses weigh up to 1,500 kilograms (3,300 pounds)! That's like a small car lounging on the ice, soaking up the sun!

These marine mammals have whiskers that are not just for show; they can have over 600 of them! These sensitive mustaches help walruses find food on the ocean floor.

Walruses can be amazing divers, reaching depths of over 80 meters (260 feet) in search of snacks. It’s like their version of a treasure hunt under the sea!

Walruses can be quite playful. Sometimes, they toss and roll around in the water, which looks like a big blob of fun in motion!

Female walruses have a unique way of calling their pups. They can make a variety of vocal sounds like barks and growls to get their babies' attention!