Published: Less than 30 min ago
People do not follow the authorities’ calls to keep their distance from the sun-worshiping walrus Freya, who is currently in Norway.
Now she is threatened with euthanasia.
The walrus has become an attraction and curious people bathe far too close to the animal, which is stressed by being shown near large crowds. The situation increases the need to take measures, reports the Norwegian radio channel NRK.
– Our biggest fear is that people could get hurt, says Nadia Jdaini, senior communications advisor at the fisheries directorate, to the channel.
– We again strongly recommend that the public keep their distance where the walrus is observed and not bathe with it. It is for your own safety and for the well-being of the animals.
The Directorate of Fisheries’ assessment is that the public’s negligent behavior and lack of respect for the authorities’ recommendations can endanger Freya’s life and health.
– Animal protection has clearly deteriorated. The walrus doesn’t get enough rest and the experts we talk to think she’s stressed.
– We are now investigating further measures, where euthanasia may be an option, says Jdaini.
Walruses are normally found in the Arctic. Freya is believed to come from Svalbard, north of Northern Norway, or possibly Greenland. The celebrity walrus has previously been seen in the Netherlands, Denmark and in the Swedish Smögen.