Walrus spotted in Northumberland euthanised by Norwegian authorities after 'fears of risk to humans' in Oslo

A walrus which was spotted basking on rocks in Northumberland has been put down by the Norwegian authorities due to fears it posed a risk to humans.

The 600kg walrus captured the hearts of the North East last November when she was spotted snoozing on the rocks at Seahouses. At the time, people were urged to stay away and allow the creature to rest - which they did - before she continued onto the Shetland Islands, and Hvide Sande and Thorsminde Harbour in Denmark.

And in recent weeks, she had become a popular attraction in the Norwegian capital Oslo, with people getting close to her and posing for pictures despite officials warning that people should refrain from doing so. Last month officials said that euthanasia would be a last resort for the protected species and they hoped she would leave the harbour of her own accord.

Read more: Incredible footage shows Arctic walrus resting on Northumberland beach

Norway's Directorate of Fisheries said Freya was put down early on Sunday "based on an overall assessment of the continued threat to human safety. Through on-site observations the past week it was made clear that the public has disregarded the current recommendation to keep a clear distance to the walrus," a spokesperson said.

"Therefore, the directorate has concluded, the possibility for potential harm to people was high and animal welfare was not being maintained."

A walrus, usually found at the North Pole or in the Arctic Ocean, sits on rock at Seahouses on the North Northumberland coast. (PA)

Frank Bakke-Jensen, the head of the directorate, said other options - including moving Freya elsewhere - were considered but authorities concluded it was not a viable option. He said: "We have sympathies for the fact that the decision can cause reactions with the public, but I am firm that this was the right call.

"We have great regard for animal welfare but human life and safety must take precedence."

Freya had a distinctive pink mark on her nose (Pernille Mia Bek)

Northumberland ornithologist Tom Cadwallender posted on Twitter: "Beyond comprehension; Norwegian Government decision to kill Freya the Walrus! She is the one who spent just a brief moment in Seahouses harbour," while South Shields photographer Steven Lomas wrote: "Humans really are the worst species on this planet to have euthanised this walrus I photographed last year in Seahouses."

Atlantic walruses usually live in the Arctic. It is unusual but not unheard of for them to travel into the North Sea and Baltic Sea.

It is believed that before Freya arrived in Northumberland, she had passed by Denmark, Germany and the Netherlands.

Did you see Freya the walrus when she visited Northumberland? Let us know!

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