Walrus Visits Garden in Norway, Delights Onlookers

Øygarden, Norway – A walrus unexpectedly wandered into a garden in Tofterøy, Øygarden, on Sunday afternoon, drawing curious onlookers and prompting a response from local wildlife authorities. The unusual visitor was first reported to BA (Bergens Avisen) by a local resident.

A Surprise Encounter

Thomas Martinussen, a local resident, described the walrus as “a real pig!” and stated he had never seen one before. He and his cousin were practicing driving when they discovered the animal had come ashore. “We didn’t think it was a walrus we were going to stumble upon on the trip,” Martinussen laughed.

Another neighbor, who wished to remain anonymous, said the walrus was “lying there like a very beast down by the sea.” Several curious people gathered to observe the animal.

Authorities Respond, Urge Caution

The Ettersøksringen, a wildlife response team in Øygarden municipality, was contacted by police and observed the walrus. Svein-Tore Hekland of the Ettersøksringen noted that it is not uncommon for walruses to come ashore, and the animal was expected to rest before returning to the sea.

The Norwegian Directorate of Fisheries was also informed and agreed that the walrus should be left undisturbed. Anette Aase, director of communications for the Directorate, stated that a fence had been removed to allow the walrus easier access back to the water.

Authorities strongly warned onlookers against disturbing the animal, emphasizing that walruses can be dangerous and people should keep a safe distance. They cautioned against approaching or touching the walrus.

A Rare Sight

Marine researcher and veterinarian Kathrine Ryeng from the Institute of Marine Research believes the walrus likely came from Svalbard or the Kara Sea in Russia. She speculated it was a young male, based on the size of its tusks. Ryeng advised maintaining a respectful distance for both safety and hygiene.

Ryeng added that it is becoming somewhat more common for walruses to visit the Norwegian coast in recent years, but it remains a special occurrence for one to settle in a garden.

Walrus Facts

According to the Great Norwegian Lexicon, walruses are Arctic species of seals characterized by their large, slightly curved canines. Males can reach 3.5 meters in length and weigh up to 1,500 kilograms, while females can grow to 2.5 meters and 900 kilograms. They can live for at least 40 years and use their tusks for defense, attack, and opening shells. There are approximately 135,000 Pacific walruses and 30,000 Atlantic walruses.