"Riding Up and Taking a Proof Shot"... Ultimately Euthanized Endangered Sea Elephant

The walrus "Freya" has been seen in the Oslo Fjord, Norway, since last month. However, on the 14th (local time), Norwegian authorities announced that Freya was euthanized for safety reasons. [Photo by Instagram capture]

[Asia Economy Reporter Hwang Sumi] Norwegian authorities announced that they euthanized the walrus named 'Freya' for safety reasons.

Freya was a female walrus weighing approximately 600kg. Although her home was the Arctic Ocean, she had appeared in the Oslo Fjord in Norway since last month, attracting much public attention. In particular, Freya's habit of climbing onto empty boats to sunbathe and rest became a hot topic as photos spread on social networking services (SNS).

During this time, Freya frequently unintentionally damaged boats by moving her body. Consequently, the authorities strongly advised citizens to keep their distance from Freya and to avoid swimming or kayaking nearby for safety reasons.

However, some citizens who came to see Freya engaged in reckless behavior. They ignored the authorities' warnings and crowded near Freya. Some even approached by boat, and there were citizens who put children on Freya and took photos.

Eventually, the Norwegian Directorate of Fisheries announced that Freya was euthanized for safety reasons. According to the Washington Post (WP) on the 15th (local time), the authorities stated, "Last week’s on-site monitoring made it clear that people have been ignoring the advice to keep a clear distance from the walrus." They explained that animal welfare was not being upheld and that Freya posed a significant potential threat to people.

The authorities said, "We also considered relocating Freya elsewhere, but it was not realistically possible," and added, "We understand that this decision may provoke public backlash, but we are confident it was the right choice." They further stated, "While we must place great importance on animal welfare, human life and safety take precedence."

Meanwhile, walruses are known to be an endangered species with only about 12,000 remaining worldwide. They primarily inhabit floating ice in the middle of the sea to ensure stable rest and feeding without disturbance from other animals. However, as climate change has worsened recently and their habitat glaciers have disappeared, it has become common for thousands of walruses to gather on land. Walruses usually do not attack humans, but they are known to feel threatened and attack if their activities or rest are disturbed.