- Walruses have been close to extinction on a couple of occasions due to overhunting. Walrus tusks, oil, skin and meat were highly valued in the 18th and 19th centuries. Only indigenous peoples of the arctic are currently allowed to hunt walrus and there is a limit on numbers that can be killed.
- Walruses make noise both above and below the water. They are the most garrulous of pinnipeds and snort, roar, whistle, grunt, bark, rasp and click. Below the water they will click, nock and tap as well as make bell-like sounds from air sacs in their pharynx.
- When startled, walruses stampede for open water, occasionally crushing calves in the process. This is probably why most females and calves form separate herds.
- Walruses don’t have very good eyesight, but their hearing and sense of smell is excellent. Touch is also an important sense in walrus communities. Walruses seek physical contact with each other.
- Walruses squirt jets of water from their mouths to excavate shellfish, clams and other food.
Popularity: 1% [?]
1 Comment Already
Pingback & Trackback
Related Post
Please Leave Your Comments Below