May 27, 2008
Walrus, the other marine mammal
BY: ScubaSuz
Dolphins, sea otters, polar bears…bring up a marine mammal in conversation, and most people will think of a cute, charismatic and intelligent creature, fur optional. Few imagine walruses, who are finally getting some time in the spotlight with their own article in the New York Times. In truth, walruses can hold their own with the other marine mammals. While they may be lacking in the looks department, they boast a keen intelligence, creative singing ability and complex social order. They even have current pop culture appeal: consider the bucket-obsessed “lolrus” on icanhascheezburger.com. Who said sea lions have all the fun?An Arctic species like the polar bear, they’re also facing pressure from habitat loss as the sea ice they depend on for everything from breeding grounds to transportation to new feeding areas diminishes.