Mass Gatherings on Alaska’s Shores

In a concerning trend, thousands of walruses have once again been forced ashore in Alaska, seeking refuge on beaches due to a lack of sea ice for resting. This phenomenon, known as a “haul-out,” has become increasingly common in recent years as Arctic sea ice continues to decline.

Impact of Sea Ice Loss

Walruses rely on sea ice as a platform for resting, nursing their young, and escaping predators. However, the loss of sea ice due to climate change has left them with fewer suitable resting spots. As a result, they are forced to haul themselves ashore in large numbers, often resulting in crowded and stressful conditions.

Crowded Conditions and Stampede Risk

The crowded conditions during haul-outs can lead to a stampede risk, particularly if the animals are startled by humans or aircraft. Last year, approximately 60 young walruses died in a stampede during a similar haul-out event. To mitigate this risk, pilots and other human activities are advised to keep a safe distance from the animals.

Sensitivity to Noise and Aircraft

Walruses are highly sensitive to noise and aircraft disturbances. Engine noise and low-flying aircraft can trigger stampedes, especially when the animals are crowded together. To protect the walruses during haul-outs, aircraft are advised to avoid flying directly over or near the gatherings.

Arctic Sea Ice Decline

The Arctic sea ice has been experiencing a steady decline in recent decades, reaching a record low maximum extent during the winter of 2022. Scientists believe that the Arctic could be entirely ice-free during summer months by the 2030s, which would have profound implications for wildlife and indigenous communities that rely on the ice.

Impacts on Wildlife

The loss of Arctic sea ice not only affects walruses but also a wide range of other wildlife species that depend on the ice for survival. Polar bears, seals, and seabirds are among the many species that rely on sea ice for hunting, resting, and breeding.

Impacts on Indigenous Communities

Indigenous communities in the Arctic have traditionally relied on sea ice for hunting, fishing, and transportation. The loss of sea ice is disrupting these traditional livelihoods and cultural practices, forcing communities to adapt to new and challenging conditions.

Mitigation and Adaptation

Addressing the issue of walrus haul-outs and the broader impacts of Arctic sea ice loss requires a multifaceted approach. Mitigation strategies, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions, are crucial to slow the pace of climate change and preserve sea ice habitats. Adaptation strategies, such as community-based monitoring and wildlife management, are also essential to help wildlife and indigenous communities cope with the changing Arctic landscape.

By understanding the causes and consequences of walrus haul-outs and Arctic sea ice decline, we can work towards mitigating the impacts and protecting both wildlife and human communities in this vulnerable region.

Initial Discovery and Identification

On March 20, the RSPCA in Wales received an unusual call. For the first time in its 200-year history, they were asked to investigate an Atlantic walrus resting on the coast of Pembrokeshire. This juvenile walrus, approximately the size of a cow, quickly became a local celebrity, with residents suggesting names like Wally, Isabelle, and Cain.

Origin and Journey

Experts believe that this walrus likely originated from either Greenland or the Norwegian archipelago Svalbard. Photographs suggest that it swam from Ireland to Wales in about six days, covering a distance of approximately 250 miles. It is suspected to be the same walrus spotted in Denmark in mid-February.

Physical Characteristics and Health

The walrus has tusks under four inches long, a common feature among walruses. Biologists were unable to determine its gender based on its tusks alone. Despite being far from its home, the walrus appeared to be in relatively good health. RSPCA animal rescue officer Ellie West observed that it was resting and slightly underweight but showed no signs of sickness or injury.

Behavior and Habits

Walruses are known to rest on land or sea ice, which is becoming increasingly scarce due to climate change. The walrus in Wales rested for about two days before returning to sea on March 22. It typically swims at an average speed of about four miles per hour, aided by its thick layer of insulating blubber.

Conservation Concerns

The RSPCA and the Welsh Marine Life Rescue closely monitored the walrus during its stay in Pembrokeshire to ensure its well-being and prevent disturbance. Lucy Babey, who leads science and conservation at ORCA, emphasized the importance of maintaining a safe distance from the walrus. “This animal is going to be pretty exhausted from all of its swimming,” she said. “It is probably going to be stressed out as it is not in an environment it is used to.”

Historical Context and Previous Sightings

While this was the first time a walrus had been spotted on the coast of Pembrokeshire, it is not the first instance of walruses visiting Ireland and Wales. Since 1979, there have been eight confirmed sightings of walruses in Ireland and a few in Scotland. In 2018, a walrus was observed traveling around various islands in Scotland for several months.

Scientific Significance

The presence of a walrus in Wales highlights the interconnectedness of marine ecosystems and the potential for long-distance travel by these animals. It also raises questions about the impact of climate change on walrus populations and their ability to find suitable resting and feeding grounds.

Public Response and Safety Precautions

The Irish Whale and Dolphin Group shared photographs comparing the walrus spotted in Ireland to the one in Wales, suggesting they may be the same individual. The RSPCA has requested that the public not approach the walrus if it reappears and to maintain a safe distance for both the animal’s well-being and their own safety.