Long before satellites tracked melting ice and ships crossed polar waters, walruses were already shaping Arctic ecosystems. These ancient marine mammals have existed in various forms for millions of years, surviving ice ages, shifting continents, and evolving predators. Today’s walrus carries that deep history in its heavy frame and weathered tusks, yet it now faces challenges unlike any in its past.
The walrus is uniquely adapted for a life split between sea and ice. Its broad flippers allow it to maneuver through frigid waters, while its tusks act like climbing tools, helping it haul its enormous body onto slippery ice sheets. Contrary to popular belief, walruses are not aggressive by nature. They prefer peaceful group living and rely on size and social unity rather than constant conflict for protection.
One of the most fascinating aspects of walrus biology is their feeding behavior. Walruses are benthic feeders, meaning they forage along the ocean floor. With hundreds of sensitive whiskers on their snouts, they can identify prey hidden beneath layers of sediment. A single walrus can consume thousands of clams in one feeding session, playing an important role in maintaining the balance of seafloor ecosystems. By stirring up sediment, they also redistribute nutrients, indirectly supporting other marine life.
Social structure is central to walrus life. They gather in massive herds that can number in the tens of thousands, especially during resting periods. These gatherings are loud, chaotic, and deeply communal. Calves are fiercely protected, often surrounded by adults that form a living barrier against threats. Mothers and calves share a strong bond, communicating through vocal cues and physical contact even in crowded groups.
Walruses have long held cultural importance for Indigenous Arctic communities. For centuries, they have provided food, tools, and materials essential for survival. Tusks and bones were traditionally carved into weapons and art, while hides were used for ropes and coverings. Many Indigenous groups maintain a deep respect for the walrus, viewing it not merely as a resource but as a relative within the natural world.
In modern times, the walrus faces increasing uncertainty. Shrinking ice forces walruses to travel farther for food and rest on unstable coastlines. Human activity, including shipping and oil exploration, adds noise and disruption to environments that were once quiet. Though walruses are resilient animals, resilience has limits.
The story of the walrus is not only about survival but adaptation. As the Arctic changes, the future of this ancient giant depends on global choices made far from icy shores. Protecting walruses means acknowledging their long history—and ensuring they remain part of Earth’s future.
