Authorities in Norway have euthanized a walrus that had drawn crowds of spectators in the Oslofjord after concluding that it posed a risk to humans.
Freya liked to climb on small boats, causing damage to them
The 600-kilogram (1,320-pound) female walrus was affectionately known as Freya. It became a popular attraction in Norway in recent weeks, despite warnings from officials that people should refrain from getting close to and posing for pictures with the massive marine mammal. Freya liked to climb on small boats, causing damage to them.
The animal was five-year-old. She was first spotted in Oslofjord on July 17. It had become a huge favorite of crowds. People had named her Freya after the Norse goddess of beauty and love.
Why did Norway kill the Walrus?
Walruses are protected. As recently as last month officials said they hoped Freya would leave of her own accord. They believed that euthanasia would be the last resort. They were considering euthanasia because repeated appeals to the public to keep their distance had been in vain and she was experiencing excessive stress.
The Oslofjord is rather crowded in the summer. People went close to her, swimming alongside her, taking pictures, and even putting children at risk.
“The decision to euthanize (the walrus) was taken on the basis of a global evaluation of the persistent threat to human security,” the head of Norway’s fisheries directorate, Frank Bakke-Jensen, said in a statement. Adding to it, “we carefully examined all the possible solutions. The country concluded that we could not guarantee the wellbeing of the animal by any of the means available.” “We have sympathies for the fact that the decision can cause a reaction from the public, but I am firm that this was the right call,” he emphasized. “We have great regard for animal welfare, but human life and safety must take precedence.”
Reportedly, Olav Lekver, a spokesperson for the fisheries directorate, said that they had no option. “She (Freya) was in an area that wasn’t natural for her.” The animal was killed “according to regulations”, the spokesperson said. However, no details were shared.
