#walrus $WAL A walrus is a massive Arctic marine mammal characterized by its long ivory tusks, which can grow up to three feet long. These social creatures use their tusks to haul themselves onto sea ice, break breathing holes, and establish dominance. They are easily identified by their sensitive whiskers (vibrissae), used to detect prey like clams on the dark seafloor. 

Highly social, walruses gather in large herds on ice floes or shores. As of January 2026, they face increasing threats from climate change, which limits the sea ice they depend on for survival.