WALRUS

Definition of WALRUS

WALRUS Noun

The term walrus is a noun referring to a large marine mammal belonging to the Odobenidae family, characterized by its prominent tusks, bulky body, and thick, wrinkled skin. Walruses are primarily found in Arctic waters and are known for their distinctive appearance and behavior.

Physical Characteristics: As a noun, walrus describes a marine mammal with several distinctive physical features. These include large, elongated tusks, which are actually elongated canine teeth used for various purposes such as defense, digging, and signaling during social interactions. Walruses also have a thick layer of blubber to insulate them in cold Arctic waters, along with a stocky body, flippers for swimming, and a prominent snout.

Habitat and Range: Walruses are primarily found in Arctic regions, inhabiting areas such as the Bering Sea, the Arctic Ocean, and the coastal areas of Greenland, Canada, Russia, and Alaska. They are highly adapted to their cold, icy environment and spend much of their time on sea ice or rocky shores.

Diet and Feeding Habits: As primarily bottom-feeders, walruses primarily feed on a diet consisting of benthic invertebrates such as clams, mussels, and other marine organisms found on the ocean floor. They use their sensitive whiskers, known as vibrissae, to locate prey in the murky waters and use their tusks and strong suction to extract food from the seabed.

Social Behaviour: Walruses are known for their social behaviour and often gather in large groups, or “haulouts,” on land or ice floes. These gatherings serve various purposes, including resting, breeding, and communal defense against predators such as polar bears. During the breeding season, male walruses engage in fierce battles for dominance and mating rights.

Conservation Status: While walruses are not currently considered endangered, they face threats from habitat loss due to climate change, as well as human activities such as hunting and pollution. Conservation efforts are underway to protect their Arctic habitat and ensure the long-term survival of this iconic marine mammal.

In summary, as a noun, walrus refers to a large marine mammal characterised by its prominent tusks, bulky body, and thick, wrinkled skin. Found primarily in Arctic waters, walruses are known for their distinctive appearance, social behaviour, and importance to the Arctic ecosystem.

Examples of WALRUS in a sentence

• The Inuit storyteller shared tales of the wise and ancient walrus that inhabited the icy waters of the Arctic.
• As the expedition approached the Arctic coastline, they were greeted by a colony of bellowing walruses lounging on the ice.
• The biologist studied the feeding behaviour of the walrus population, observing their use of whiskers to locate prey on the ocean floor.
• Climate change poses a threat to the habitat of the walrus, as the reduction of sea ice affects their ability to rest and access food.
• Inuit art often features intricate carvings of walruses, highlighting the cultural significance of these majestic creatures in the Arctic.
• The photographer captured a stunning image of a mother walrus and her calf basking on a floating iceberg.
• The environmentalist advocated for conservation measures to protect the vulnerable walrus population and their Arctic ecosystem.
• The expedition team marveled at the sheer size and strength of the male walrus as it emerged from the frigid waters.

Synonyms

• Sea elephant
• Morse
• Rosmarus
• Odobenidae
• Flippered behemoth
• Tusked mammal
• Marine giant
• Arctic marine creature

Antonyms

• Tiny marine creature
• Lightweight sea dweller
• Non-aquatic creature
• Land mammal
• Non-aquatic animal
• Terrestrial creature
• Dry-land dweller
• Inland species