Authorities in Norway have euthanised a walrus that had drawn crowds of spectators within the Oslo Fjord after concluding that it posed a danger to people.
The 600-kilogram feminine walrus, identified affectionately as Freya, grew to become a well-liked attraction in Norway in current weeks, regardless of warnings from officers that folks ought to chorus from getting shut and posing for photos with the large marine mammal. Freya appreciated to clamber on small boats, inflicting harm to them.
Walruses are protected and as lately as final month officers stated they hoped Freya would depart of her personal accord and that euthanasia can be a final resort.
Norway's Directorate of Fisheries stated Freya was put down early Sunday “based mostly on an total evaluation of the continued risk to human security.”
“By on-site observations the previous week, it was made clear that the general public has disregarded the present suggestion to maintain a transparent distance to the walrus,” it stated. “Due to this fact, the Directorate has concluded, the chance for potential hurt to individuals was excessive and animal welfare was not being maintained.”
The pinnacle of the directorate, Frank Bakke-Jensen, stated different choices — together with transferring the animal elsewhere — have been thought-about. However authorities concluded it wasn't a viable choice.
“We now have sympathies for the truth that the choice could cause a response from the general public, however I'm agency that this was the best name,” Bakke-Jensen stated. “We now have nice regard for animal welfare, however human life and security should take priority.”
Atlantic walruses usually reside within the Arctic. It's uncommon however not exceptional for them to journey into the North and Baltic Seas. One other walrus, nicknamed Wally, was seen final 12 months on seashores and even a lifeboat dock in Wales and elsewhere.
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