SeaWorld works to save walrus calf found by Alaskan hunters

3 months ago 6

A local expert with SeaWorld San Diego is working across oceans to save a walrus calf that was found by hunters orphaned and malnourished in Alaska.

The 10-day-old walrus calf was found last month on the shores of a beach named Utqiagvik — one of the most northern parts of Alaska — after a walrus herd had departed. She was isolated and underweight.

Knowing the calf was in danger, the hunters called the Alaska SeaLife Center, who picked up the animal. They then turned to SeaWorld San Diego’s senior zoological specialist Denise Higginbotham to lend her expertise in saving its life.

A rescued orphaned walrus calf sleeps on the leg of SeaWorld San Diego's senior zoological specialist Denise Higginbotham at Alaska SeaLife Center in Alaska. (Photo courtesy of the Alaska SeaLife Center).