Arctic nature boasts many interesting creatures. And perhaps the most unusual are those that live by the sea, for example, walruses. Local people joke that these animals are the elephants of Alaska. Their lifestyle is very special, so viewing walruses in their natural habitat may be quite amusing.
Summer is considered prime time for spotting these sea animals. That’s when thousands of male walruses leave the ice and come to land, gathering at small rocky beaches. To spot them, go to Round Island, Cape Seniavin, or Cape Peirce; these places are the best for observing these creatures.
Practical info
When is the best time to see male walruses in Alaska?
Male walruses can be seen in Alaska from June to August. During this time, they come to land where they gather at small rocky beaches. Although they can be seen year-round, the summer months are the prime viewing season for observing these magnificent creatures. Show more
Which are the most popular locations for walrus spotting in Alaska?
Round Island, Cape Seniavin, and Cape Peirce are among the best places to spot walruses in Alaska. These locations attract thousands of male walruses that gather on small rocky beaches. Tourists can also increase their chances of seeing the creatures in their natural habitats by taking guided tours to areas not known to be walrus habitats. Show more
What is the maximum number of walruses that can be seen at once?
In some locations, hundreds of walruses can be spotted at one time. For instance, Round Island is known to be home to more than 14,000 male walruses at a time. Though female walruses can also be observed, their groups are typically smaller than males'. Observing these herds basking in the sun in their natural habitat is an amazing experience. Show more
What distinguishes walruses and makes them captivating to watch?
Walruses have a distinctive lifestyle. They inhabit the shorelines of Arctic waters and feed on clams, shrimp, and mollusks that they dig out from the ocean floor. With their massive tusks and impressive weight, they are remarkable creatures to behold. Their social behavior is also fascinating to watch, with males displaying their dominance hierarchy while female and juvenile walruses travel and feed together. Show more
Are there any regulations for observing walruses in their natural habitat?
Yes, there are regulations for observing walruses in their natural habitats. There is a required minimum distance of 100 yards from the animals, and visitors are prohibited from disturbing their natural behavior. In addition, they must follow guidelines to avoid causing destruction to the environment, excessive noise, or littering. Walruses and their habitats must be protected for future generations. Show more
