Orlando Welcomes Rescued Walrus Calf from Alaska

SeaWorld Orlando has introduced a new member to its walrus family: Annautaq, a five-month-old Pacific walrus calf rescued from a remote beach in northern Alaska. The 220-pound calf is currently receiving dedicated care from the animal care and veterinary team at SeaWorld, one of only four facilities in the U.S. equipped to care for walruses.

His name, meaning ‘axe’ in Iñupiaq, was chosen by Violet Anniskett, a local intern who discovered Annautaq with U.S. Geological Survey scientist Tony Fischbach. The young walrus was found in a vulnerable state, hiding between the bodies of two adult walruses. After a few days of care in Alaska, Annautaq was transported to the Alaska SeaLife Center for rehabilitation before making the 4,000-mile journey to Florida. Currently, he is in a 30-day quarantine and receiving specialized feedings, and public viewing will be determined by his care team.