Norway plans to euthanize Freya, the walrus that became the star of the summer

Since mid-July, the Freya walrus has become a local star in the Norwegian capital. So much so that it became dangerous for the animal and the public.

Norwegian authorities announced, Thursday, that they are considering euthanasia of Freya walruses, which have become a summer star in the Oslo Fjord to the point of endangering the lives of the public and animals.

Despite constant calls to stay away from the mammals and not disturb them, Freya, a young woman who weighs about 600 kilograms, continues to attract a lot of attention, the Norwegian Fisheries Directorate explained in a press release with the backing of an image showing a crowd of onlookers in the immediate vicinity of the animals. walrus;

Annoy the curious animal

“The reckless behavior of the public and the lack of respect for the authorities’ recommendations can put lives at risk,” said Nadia Al-Jedini, a spokeswoman for the Fisheries Directorate.

“We are now exploring additional measures where euthanasia could be a real alternative,” she added.

Walruses usually live in the northern latitudes, but Freya, whose name refers to a goddess associated with love and beauty in Norse mythology, has been swimming in the capital’s waters since July 17.

After becoming a star in its summer hibernation, the animal has been photographed chasing birds or climbing swaying boats under its own weight to fall asleep there (walruses can sleep for up to 20 hours a day), causing significant damage.

“His well-being is clearly diminishing.”

But despite the instructions, the animal is still annoyed by curious people who bathe near it or get too close to it, sometimes with children, to photograph it, according to the Department of Fisheries.

“His well-being has obviously diminished. The walrus isn’t getting enough rest and the experts we’re talking to now think he’s stressed,” said Ms. El-Gedini.

A protected species, walruses feed mainly on invertebrates such as mollusks, shrimp, crabs, and small fish.

Although it does not usually attack humans, it may, according to the authorities, feel threatened by unwelcome people and attack them.