The Natural Habitat of the Walrus
The walrus is a large mammal that inhabits both the Arctic and sub-Arctic oceanic regions. It tends to remain near the shoreline, where shallower water is available. The walrus migrates twice each year, to follow ice packs and floes during the different seasons, so that they can maintain their preferred habitat. After threats of extinction (the walrus has been hunted by Europeans and Americans alike), conservation laws enacted by the U.S. and Russia have helped increase and stabilize population levels.
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Arctic and sub-Arctic Habitat
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The walrus inhabits very cold areas near water. Their natural habitats can be found in the Arctic and sub-Arctic regions. The animal tends to inhabit areas with relatively shallow water: they dive underwater for their food and generally don't go lower than 260 feet. The areas in which they reside have an average temperature ranging from five degrees Farenheit to forty degrees Farenheit.
Living Habits
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The walrus is well-adapted to cold environments. Walruses tend to remain on land more than they stay in water: their time spent in the ocean is focused on feeding. The animals prefer ice and snow to dry land, and generally remain on ice floes as long as they're available. Additionally, herds of walrus separate themselves by sex: males and females live apart from one another in their habitats during the summer months.
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Feeding and Habitat
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The walrus prefers an oceanic habitat with a gravel bottom. They feed primarily on oceanic food sources, keeping a carnivorous diet. Clams, snails, seals, sea cucumbers, and--very occasionally--fish all comprise the foundation of the walrus's diet. The oceanic habitat is necessary to support the walrus's dietary needs, and if the ecosystem of the habitat is affected, it can drastically impact the walrus population.
Lifecycle and Habitat
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Mating occurs in the ocean, between the months of January and April. Gestation lasts over a year: 15-16 months, on average. At most, female walruses give birth once every two years. The walrus calf is born in the icy habitat, usually in mid-Spring, and most of its early life is spent in the water: the mother nurses her offspring in the ocean and on the ice floes for up to two years. The walrus calf nurses frequently, usually between the mother's search for food for herself.
Threats to the Habitat
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Human encroachment remains the greatest threat to the walrus's habitat. A variety of human activities--from fishing to climate change--have a lasting impact on the walrus and its habitat. Climate change has shrunk the ice in the walrus's habitat, making it more crowded and unable to sustain the walrus population. Ocean temperatures have changed, affecting animal migratory patterns and the walrus's ability to sustain itself.
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References
- Photo Credit walrus image by Vasily Smirnov from Fotolia.com
