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Adult female Pacific walrus sliding into the water

By Alaska Science Center
Walrus with large white tusks laying on ice flow.
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Detailed Description

An adult female Pacific walrus slides into the water as she assesses her surroundings.  The female is 15 years or older based on the length of the tusks.  USGS and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service conducted joint research expeditions in 2023, 2024, and 2025 to collect data on the Pacific walrus population.  Skin biopsy samples are collected from walruses hauled-out on sea ice to help scientists estimate population abundance and trend.  Age structure data is also collected from walruses hauled-out on sea ice, which will help scientists estimate survival.  MMPA Permit 33776D.

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Public Domain.

Photographer: William Beatty

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