Walrus Odobenus rosmarus

Walruses are native to seas around the Arctic and are marine mammals distantly related to sealions and fur seals.

The only species in their genus, there are three subspecies of Walrus depending on geographic region (Atlantic, Laptev and Pacific). Shown is the Pacific Walrus.

The Walrus is known for its parallel long tusks, both male and female have the tusks, but those shown have had their tusks removed.

They are also known for their moustaches (also a feature of both male and female). As with sealions, the male walrus is about twice the size and weight of the female.

Females weigh up to 1000Kg and males double that. Because of their weight, they are cumbersome on land but can be graceful in the water.

The weight is mainly due to the large amount of blubber under the skin - needed to keep the Walrus warm in Arctic waters. Among Pinnipeds (seals, sealions), only the Elephant Seals are larger and heavier than the Walrus.