Crowds have gathered to get a glimpse of a walrus which has washed up on shore. More than 50 people have congregated at Scarborough Harbour after the walrus, a large mammal usually found in the Arctic Circle, appeared in the North Yorkshire seaside town.
Police and rescue teams are on site to ensure that the walrus is not disturbed, Yorkshire Live reports. Walruses, which can weigh more than a tonne, can rest for between six and 24 hours and experts say they are best left alone.
Molly Gray, Rescue and Community Co-ordinator, said the walrus is older than three, a male and 'sexually mature but not socially mature, yet'. She said: "It's really important that the walrus is left with plenty of space and a quiet environment so it's able to rest.
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"Walruses make long journeys so it's really important that he conserves his energy. Our biggest advice is to stay away, and I know it's tempting to go and see him.
"We're not really sure why he's there to be honest, we can confirm it was the same walrus that was in Southampton about a month ago. Hopefully he's making the journey back up north.
"We think he's visiting due to climate change - walruses live in the Arctic and we think because the ice caps are melting, that's why he's travelled so far south."
Ms Gray also advised onlookers to resist the temptation to feed him, as walruses can forage seabed, eating muscles, clams and razor shells. Excited onlooker Jamie Johnson, who arrived at 7.30am, said: "It's very chilled out. Only really moving to keep out of the water." People are being kept back by the natural fence line, and police and British Divers Marine Life Rescue teams.
"For me to get as close to one is an absolutely exhilarating feeling. It's unsurprisingly the first time I've ever seen one in the wild and certainly a great memory to end 2022."
Kate Stephenson said: "I saw him about 7.30/7.45am on the slipway into the harbour. He was sleeping at first, then woke up, had a look around and pulled himself a bit further up onto the slope.
"He had a look at the people watching, but seemed pretty unfazed by it all. A police woman arrived while I was there.
"There was also a marine vet and a couple of rescue workers with a car pulled up on the slipway, they were having a number of discussions, but no actual activity. One of the cafes brought them tea, which was the most British thing ever."
Jenny Markwell said: "It was very unexpected! But such a treat to see a wild animal up close. It’s made my day to be honest. I hope the walrus is ok, and manages to get himself back on his journey."
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