Walrus
We observed roughly 50 large walruses — heaped in a giant, fragrant “pig pile” on the beach. They were enjoying the slow motion rhythm of eating, resting, and digesting (stinky!).
Their tusks are actually very long canine teeth….much like an elephant’s. They use them to pull their enormous bodies out of the water and to poke holes in the ice to breathe (like ice picks!). Their bristly whiskers are very sensitive. They use them to locate their favorite delicacy deep down on the dark ocean floor: clams!
Photo: Michael S. Nolan
Photo: Ralph Lee Hopkins