Pinnipeds - Walruses (Odobenus rosmarus)
Walrus are large and powerful animals. Males are approximately 20% longer and 50% heavier than females. Males also tend to have more massive skulls and tusks. Adult females can reach lengths of up to 10 feet and weigh approximately 1,200 to 2,500 pounds. After the first few years of life, the growth rate of female walruses declines rapidly and they reach a maximum body size by approximately 10 years of age. Males tend to grow faster and for a longer period of time than females. They usually do not reach a full adult body size, 10 to 12 feet in length and weighing as much as 4,000 pounds, until they are 15 to 16 years of age.
Walruses are a managed species by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. NMML researchers do not actively work with walruses, however, they do get opportunities to photograph them. Photos here are from NMML staff over the years who have encountered them in their research areas.
Unless indicated otherwise Alaska Fisheries Science Center (AFSC) photos and videos are in the public domain and cannot be copyrighted. Credit should be given to (photographer's name if available), Alaska Fisheries Science Center, NOAA Fisheries Service. For use of images other than those of the AFSC, please contact the image source as credited on the image detail page. Thank you.
