Popular Walrus 'Thor' Arrives in Iceland After Visiting New England, UK

The famous walrus species 'Thor' became an instant audience hit after visiting the United Kingdom and New England. Recent reports revealed that it was likely to arrive in Iceland.

When Thor arrived at the British waters, Britons began to visit him at Hamspire in December. The excitement of rare animals visiting the UK was a chance for picture-taking and nature appreciation.

Thor's sightings near Iceland

According to The Guardian and BBC reports, the energetic Walrus Thor was spotted near Breiðdalsvík in Iceland (Friday) after being last seen in British waters.

According to World Wildlife Fund (WWF), the Walrus has the scientific name Odobenus rosmarus. They can weigh from 400 to 1800 kg.

• They can are considered vulnerable by the IUCN Red List.
• They are look-alike of seals and sea lions, but male and female walruses have prominent long tusks.
• Like other aquatic animals, walruses migrate from coast t- coast, swimming around 100m to catch their prey.
• They can live up to 40 years. However, climate change is the main threat to the Walrus population. WWF added that their species are vulnerable to noise and disturbance

Meanwhile, the Guardian reported that the British Divers Marine Life Rescue confirmed that the found Walrus was Thor.

The Marine Life Rescue was delighted, knowing Thor managed to move to Iceland.

As mentioned by WWF, walruses are susceptible to disturbance and noise. As a result, the New Year's fireworks were canceled as it could disturb the visiting Thor.

Effects of climate change

(Photo : by TOR ERIK SCHRDER/NTB/AFP via Getty Images)
Female walrus nicknamed Freya in Frognerkilen, Oslo Fjord, Norway, on July 19, 2022. Recent reports showed that the famous walrus 'Thor' was spotted arriving in Iceland after visiting parts of the United Kingdom and New England.

On the contrary, the migration of walruses is also concerning. Reports said that climate change had been the main concern that affects walruses.

Recently, CNN and The Guardian reported that January's temperatures in Europe recorded exceptionally warm temperatures.

The reports noted the effect of climate change on warming events.

Furthermore, the CNBC report explained that the arrival and return of the El Nino phenomenon could unleash hotter temperatures.

The La Nina phenomenon has helped reduce the impact of hotter temperatures. As La Nina ends, it is expected that global temperatures could soar.

Also Read: Rare Appearance: Giant Pacific Octopus Swims in Tide Pools in Northwestern Oregon 

The report added that the El Nino event could significantly affect weather and global temperatures, unleashing hotter to extreme conditions.

The growing threat of climate change and extreme temperatures could impact animals' survival. Animals not used to extreme temperatures could find it challenging to thrive.

More facts about Walrus

Walruses are amazing animals that migrate from place to place. According to AZ Animals, the walrus population has two subspecies:

• Altlantic Warus
• Pacific Walrus

According to WWF, the population of Atlantic Walrus could reach up to 25,000. Meanwhile, the Pacific Walrus could reach 200,000.

Meanwhile, AZ Animals that Pacific Walruses thrive in East Siberian Seas, Laptev and Bering waters. They like to eat fish, crabs, shrimp and other small sea animals.

Furthermore, polar bears and orca whales are the main predators that target young walruses.

Related Article: How Labyrinthine Shape in Lake Saimaa Helps Save Endangered Saimaa Ringed Seal From Population Decline

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