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[[Image:Walrus1.JPG|right|Walruses.]]
[[Image:Walrus1.JPG|right|Walruses.]]
The '''Walrus''' ''Odobenus rosmarus'' is a large species of [[Arctic]] [[pinniped]], readily distinguished from all other marine mammals by the possession of a pair of substantial tusks, used for hauling them onto ice floes. Walruses have no external ears, and are heavily whiskered, which aids them in detecting their main food, [[mollusc]]s living on the sea floor. Sometimes rogue walruses, generally large adult males, will attack and consume smaller [[seal]]s and toothed [[whale]]s.
The '''Walrus''' ''Odobenus rosmarus'' is a large species of [[Arctic]] pinniped, readily distinguished from all other marine mammals by the possession of a pair of substantial tusks, used for hauling them onto ice floes. Walruses have no external ears, and are heavily whiskered, which aids them in detecting their main food, [[mollusc]]s living on the sea floor. Sometimes rogue walruses, generally large adult males, will attack and consume smaller [[seal]]s and toothed [[whale]]s.
Three populations, sometimes considered as subspecies, are recognized; in the north [[Atlantic Ocean]], the north [[Pacific Ocean]], and the [[Laptev Sea]].
Three populations, sometimes considered as subspecies, are recognized; in the north [[Atlantic Ocean]], the north [[Pacific Ocean]], and the Laptev Sea.
Walruses have been traditionally hunted by Arctic people for their meat, hide and [[ivory]] for thousands of years. In recent times, hunting for ivory has severely impacted walrus populations. Although now protected, some [[poaching]] continues. The only other animal that preys upon adult walrus is the [[orca|killer whale]], though [[polar bear]]s will sometimes attack calves.
Walruses have been traditionally hunted by Arctic people for their meat, hide and [[ivory]] for thousands of years. In recent times, hunting for ivory has severely impacted walrus populations. Although now protected, some [[poaching]] continues. The only other animal that preys upon adult walrus is the [[orca|killer whale]], though [[polar bear]]s will sometimes attack calves.