Walrus

Observations: In the wild, walrus have been estimated to live over 40 years (Bernhard Grzimek 1990). Their longevity in captivity has not been studied in detail and hence information on ageing is limited. One wild born specimen was about 30.6 years old when it died in captivity (Richard Weigl 2005). Atherosclerosis was described in a 25 year-old captive animal (Gruber et al. 2002).

Bivalves, polychaetes, fish

circumpolar in the Arctic

North America

Distinguishing characteristics: long tusks, stout whiskers, large size, square face, colour of skin is brown with sparse red hair. May appear white or red at times.