An orphaned Pacific walrus calf has a new home at SeaWorld Orlando after being found alone on a remote northern Alaska beach.
The walrus calf was rehabilitated by Alaska SeaLife Center and then moved to SeaWorld Orlando, which is one of only four US institutions currently capable of housing walruses.
Weighing approximately 220 pounds and named Annautaq, the five-month-old male calf is receiving around-the-clock attention from SeaWorld’s dedicated animal care and veterinary team.
He is settling in as he prepares to join the park’s herd of walruses, including Uki, Kaboodle and Garfield.
In Alaska, Annautaq was discovered hiding between the older remains of two adult walruses and was unlikely to survive without intervention.
He was taken to the Alaska SeaLife Center where he was cared for by the team, as well as SeaWorld's animal care and veterinary staff experienced in looking after walruses.
"Annautaq’s story shows why having specialized marine mammal rehabilitation capacity in Alaska is so important," said Jane Belovarac, wildlife response curator at the Alaska SeaLife Center.
"When an orphaned walrus calf is found in a remote part of the state, a successful response depends on being able to move quickly from rescue to intensive, species specific rehabilitative, husbandry, and veterinary care.
"Our team was able to stabilize Annautaq, support his medical and social needs around the clock and prepare him for the next stage of his care."
SeaWorld Orlando is now home to a rescued walrus calf weighing approximately 220 pounds and named Annautaq
Although Annautaq responded well to rehabilitation, the US Fish and Wildlife Service determined he could not be released into the wild.
With SeaWorld Orlando selected as the most suitable home for the walrus calf, Annautaq travelled 4,000 miles to Florida.
At SeaWorld Orlando, Annautaq is receiving up to six bottle feedings a day, plus veterinary care and 24-hour support during a planned 30-day quarantine.
"At this young age, Annautaq needs more than nutrition and veterinary care. He also needs close contact and companionship, which our expert team is providing around the clock," said Jim Kinsler, curator at SeaWorld Orlando.
"As he settles in, we’ll make introductions to Garfield, Kaboodle and Uki at his pace," Kinsler added.
"Kaboodle’s experience caring for rescued calves and the opportunity to connect with two-year-old Uki, herself a rescued walrus, make this herd a promising setting for him to learn, build relationships and grow."
