Norway’s popular walrus Freya could be euthanized if the public does not keep a safe distance from the animal, authorities have warned.
The 600kg icon, nicknamed after the Norse goddess of beauty and love, has become known for her antics that include climbing onto small boats and sinking them with her large frame.
But the Norwegian Ministry of Fisheries has warned that the public is getting too close to the animal, putting its safety and Freya’s well-being at risk.
The department warned that “other measures” such as euthanasia are being considered.
Nadia Jdaini, Senior Communications Advisor at the Directorate of Fisheries, said: “Our biggest fear is that people could be harmed.
“The Fisheries Directorate’s assessment is that negligent behavior by the public and failure to comply with the recommendations of the authorities may endanger life and health.”
The ministry added that there is evidence that some people threw objects at Freya, bathed alongside her and took photos near the edge of the water where she bathes.
The ministry is in contact with police and vets to discuss further measures, as patrol officers observe the situation.
Footage released by the ministry shows adults and children in Kadettamgen getting “up close and personal” with the walrus, despite warnings.
While she caused headaches for some local boat owners, Freya became a real attraction with almost daily updates from local media on her sightings, with her distinctive pink patch near her nose.
She was spotted spending time this summer in Oslofjord, a cove in southeastern Norway.
Concerns over Freya’s condition
Walruses normally live in herds in the Arctic, further north from where they have been spotted.
But with the attention that comes with Freya’s fame, the ministry has raised concerns about her condition and is in constant contact with a vet.
Ms Jdaini said the walrus was not getting enough rest and professionals speaking with the ministry considered her to be stressed.
Fisheries director Frank Bakke-Jensen said moving Freya would be difficult and if she was euthanized it would be for safety reasons.
Bakke-Jensen said: “It is a wild animal that is far from its natural habitat. Then it is unpredictable how it will act. Above all, we ask that people listen to what we say, take the recommendations seriously and keep a good distance”.
He added that in the worst case scenario, they would have to kill Freya.
