The friendly walrus has been making his way around the coast of the U.K. and Ireland over the past six months.
Following his adventures around the U.K. and Ireland, Wally the Walrus is to get his own purpose-built pontoon.
Weighing 800 kg (125 st), the huge walrus has sunk several boats on his journeys around the isles.
Thus, a purpose-built pontoon is to be prepared to stop the walrus from sinking any more boats.
Travels around the U.K. and Ireland – getting the V.I.P treatment
The massive Arctic walrus was first spotted in March on Valentia Island off the coast of County Kerry.
Since then, he has travelled over 4,000 km (2,485 miles) and has been spotted in France, Spain, and across the U.K.
According to the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group (IWDG), due to his colossal weight, Wally has been sinking one or two boats in every harbour he enters.
Thus, Wally the Walrus is to get his own purpose-built pontoon to combat this issue.
Recent sightings – making his way around the coast
The huge Arctic Walrus has been spotted all along the west coast of Ireland. The most recent sighting was recorded in Crookhaven Harbour, County Cork, last Wednesday.
Advising owners to protect their boats, IWDG’s sighting officer Padraig Whooley said vessels should be covered or engines should be removed to avoid damage.
Taking extra measures to protect Ireland’s boats, Wally the Walrus is now to get his own purpose-built pontoon.
Keep your distance – don’t approach the walrus
Speaking on RTÉ Morning Ireland, Whooley also advised the public not to approach Wally.
The walrus is showing signs of injury on his flipper. So, people should avoid approaching Wally to ensure both his and their own safety.
Whooley said, “It is doing absolutely fine on its own, and there is no evidence it will benefit from human protection.
“Don’t mill around on boats as it has the potential to disturb this animal. The walrus is doing absolutely fine without us.”
While the walrus is surely making his presence known, it is better for both Wally and the public to keep their distance.
Wally the Walrus to get his own purpose-built pontoon – protecting boats in the area
Taking breaks from his travels around the coastline, Wally has been resting on nearby boats. However, due to his weight, many boats have been sunk or damaged.
Thus, Seal Rescue Ireland has proposed a purpose-built pontoon to offer Wally an alternative place to rest.
However, executive director Melanie Croce told BBC News that it was proving difficult to get the pontoons in place before Wally moved on.
She said, “We just hope the next time he jumps off the boat, they’re going to try to take the boat away so that he uses the rib alternatively.
“If he does take to the rib, which is what we’re hoping he’ll do, then that will be a designated place for him to be safe.”
