Walrus Freya became famous when she chose a submarine of the Dutch Royal Navy to sunbathe in October. The Navy was a big fan of the new mascot. Freya’s new home, in southern Norway, is less enthusiastic.
The young walrus called Freya has been around for a long time. Her congeners normally choose the Arctic, but Freya prefers to dwell further south. After her performance in the Dutch Wadden Sea in October, trips to Germany, Denmark and the United Kingdom, she arrived in Norway in June.
While the Dutch Royal Navy’s submarine was sturdy enough to allow the walrus to bask, Freya’s habit of lying on vessels instead of ice floes is causing problems in Norway. The boats that the walrus chooses there are a lot smaller. Many boats were damaged and several were sunk by the 600 to 700 kilo animal. Insurance claims have already been filed for the “vandalism.”
Police intervention
In recent days, Freya has been rocking the Norwegian capital Oslo. On Monday, the walrus blocked a rower, who tried to chase the animal away with a garden hose, in vain. On Tuesday, she came into contact with the police. The harbor police also tried to spray Freya away from a boat with a large water hose. A local news website published a video the same day of Freya attacking a swan, according to a witness with fatal outcome. Swimmers are advised to get out of the water if they see Freya. Not because she would be aggressive towards people, but because she might want to play and drag swimmers underwater.
Frustrated boat owners make it clear in local and international media such as Die Welle and NBC that they want the animal to go away. But also for the well-being of the walrus itself, it would be better for her to move on.
Tow away
Curious people who come to take pictures with their boats or jet skis in the harbor of Oslo, disturb Freya’s peace, experts say. For example, walrus expert Rune Aae thinks that many viewers get too close, startle Freya, and prevent her from leaving. This species likes to eat large meals, but must rest for up to 20 hours afterwards. “If they’re constantly stressed by the presence of people, it’s not good for her.” Experts are calling on Norwegians and tourists to leave the walrus, a protected species, alone.
Scientists have devised a plan to restore good peace to both walrus and humans. They want to teach Freya to lie down on a floating platform, attached to a ship especially for her. Once she’s used to her new berth, they’ll tow the walrus to the quiet northern Norwegian coast.