Wildlife scientists in Alaska rescued an orphaned Pacific walrus calf after it was found nestled between two adult walrus carcasses on a remote beach.
U.S. Geological Survey research walrus biologist Tony Fischbach and Ilisagvik College student Violet Anniskett said they located the young walrus alone — and in danger — last month when he was sitting around Point Lay in the northwest corner of the state.
“When we found him, a determined flock of gulls was intent on scavenging him,” Mr. Fischbach told the Alaska SeaLife Center. “He was in immediate peril of suffering this fate had we not gotten approval to intervene. Two polar bears were also active on the island.”
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The two researchers said they moved the calf to an abandoned building and waited for transport. He was eventually flown 800 miles away to the ALSC in Seward.
The center said it was rare for it to shelter an orphaned Pacific walrus calf, having rehabilitated only 12 of the mammals since its opening in 1998.
“Caring for an orphaned walrus calf is truly a team effort and requires around-the-clock commitment,” said ASLC Wildlife Response Curator Jane Belovarac. “At least two staff members have been working shifts around the clock to stay with him and provide the care he needs.”
The scientists are looking into a long-term home for the calf.
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