Norwegian authorities euthanized the famous walrus known as Freya on August 14, after repeatedly warning crowds to stay away from this attention-grabbing animal.
The head of the Norwegian Directorate of Fisheries, Frank Bakke-Jensen, stated in a press release: “The decision to euthanize was made based on a global assessment of the long-term threat to human safety,” according to AFP.
“We carefully considered all possible solutions. We concluded that it was not possible to ensure the animal’s health by any available means,” Frank Bakke-Jensen affirmed.
Officials had previously indicated that they were considering euthanizing Freya due to repeated calls for the public to keep their distance from the 600 kg animal, but to no avail.
Freya, named after the Norse goddess of beauty and love, became a “magnet” for crowds starting July 17 when she first appeared in the waters of Norway’s capital.
Freya has appeared in the UK, Netherlands, Denmark, and Sweden and chose to spend part of the summer in Norway. (Photo: AFP).
Walruses typically inhabit the northern latitudes of the Arctic.
In between her naps—walruses can sleep up to 20 hours a day—Freya was spotted chasing a duck, attacking a swan, and frequently sunbathing on boats. Her considerable weight posed significant risks to the vessels.
Despite ongoing calls from authorities, curious onlookers continued to approach the walrus, sometimes bringing children along to take pictures.
Freya had previously appeared in the UK, Netherlands, Denmark, and Sweden before choosing to spend part of her summer in Norway.
The walrus first drew attention in Norway by climbing onto boats in Kragerø, a quaint coastal village in the South.
Walruses are a protected species, primarily feeding on invertebrates such as mollusks, shrimp, crabs, and small fish.
