Walrus (wŏl′rŭs), a marine carnivorous mammal, closely related to seals and sea lions. It is known by its enormous down-turned tusks or canine teeth, projecting from the upper jaw, sometimes reaching a length of thirty inches, The tusks are of solid ivory; are useful in defense, an aid in
digging and in climbing. Old animals are almost naked, the young ones quite thickly covered with fur of a pale brown color.
Walruses have a thick, clumsy body, deepest at the shoulders, and their feet, which are adapted for swimming, are also
WALRUS
furrowed so as to hold on to smooth surfaces. They reach a length of 12 feet or more and a weight of 2,200 pounds. There are two living species, one found in the Atlantic and one in the Pacific. The Atlantic form is still found on the coast of Labrador and Hudson Bay, but formerly extended further south. The Pacific form is more northern, being rarely found on the mainland. They feed largely on clams and other mollusks, which they dig from the sea-bottom with their tusks. They visit islands and ice-floes, and congregate in considerable numbers during the breeding period. They are hunted for their hides, oil and ivory, and their flesh is relished by natives along the Arctic coast. Their decrease is a very serious loss to native Alaskan. The polar bear is the most dreaded natural enemy.