Featured Image Credit: RUSSELL NEAVE
By: Sarah Sharkey
A lone walrus has been spotted roaming throughout the waters of Scotland. Affectionately named “Wally,” first showed up in Orkney in March. Later he turned up on the west coast. Since then he has moved to Skerries.
Many visitors to the area are hoping to get a look at this relatively rare animal. It is very uncommon for a walrus to leave the Arctic. The gentle giants of the pinniped family are the largest semiaquatic marine mammals.
Although it is uncommon that Wally is in Scotland, it does not mean that he is in any danger. The warmer warms will likely not harm him. As long of he can find food, then he will be able to continue is odd trip through Scottish waters.
If you are lucky enough to spot Wally while in Scotland, then enjoy the experience. It is very unlikely that you will ever see another walrus in these waters again. Especially as the waters around the world start to warm, walruses will be forced to stay in their traditionally icy habitat. Their bodies are built with masses of blubber to protect them from the cold, but if the water gets too warm these animals can overheat.
For now, Wally seems content in Scotland but it is likely that he will return to Arctic waters soon.
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