Indigenous cultures in Siberia and Alaska like the Yupik have sustainably hunted walrus for thousands of years. Walrus have been a primary source of food, shelter, transportation, tools and clothing. Warming due to climate change is effecting the availability of sea ice where walruses rest, breed, give birth and nurse young. They also normally spend time on rocky beaches called haul-outs. But because sea ice is rapidly shrinking, haul-outs are now overcrowded with tens of thousands of walruses, who when easily spooked stampede back into the water trampling others in the process. Other dangers include human-wildlife conflict.
Today scientists are encouraged to talk to Indigenous elders and hunters who have a deep appreciation and wisdom of walruses. It's been noted that English speakers usually have just one name for the species where Indigenous Peoples have dozens of descriptive names for walrus noting the sex, age or other important characteristics of the animals. Their vital insight can teach scientists about migration, behaviors and health status of walrus but they need to listen. We can help walruses through reduction of greenhouse emissions and advocacy in the protection of critical habitats. Bernie Laselute's precious walrus has a set of amazing tusks, etched whiskers and turquoise eyes. About 2" long, 1" wide and 1" tall, carved from one lovely Picasso marble specimen.
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