Walrus

A walrus (Odobenus rosmarus) is a large marine mammal found in the Arctic. They are a keystone species in their habitat and are instantly recognizable by their prominent tusks and whiskers.

Walruses are massive animals, with males reaching up to 12 feet in length and weighing over 4,400 pounds. Their most distinguishing features are their long ivory tusks, which are enlarged canine teeth and can grow up to 3 feet long. Both males and females have tusks, which they use for defense, hauling their bodies out of the water onto ice floes, and digging for food on the seafloor. They also have a bristly mustache of whiskers, known as a mystacial vibrissae, which is very sensitive and helps them find food.

Walruses live in the cold, shallow waters of the Arctic and Subarctic regions, preferring to haul out on ice floes and coastal beaches. They are bottom-feeders that use their sensitive whiskers to locate clams, mussels, and other invertebrates on the seafloor. They then use their powerful tongue and palate to create a vacuum and suck the meat out of the shells.

Walruses are social animals that often gather in large herds called haulouts, which can consist of thousands of individuals. They are very vocal and communicate with each other using a variety of sounds, including bellows, clicks, and whistles.