SeaWorld Orlando welcomes rescued Alaskan walrus calf

An orphaned five-month-old Pacific walrus calf named Annautaq has been relocated from a remote beach in northern Alaska to SeaWorld Orlando in Florida. The calf, weighing approximately 200 to 220 pounds, was discovered by a wildlife research intern hiding between the remains of two adult walruses after its herd likely fled due to heavy surf.

Following his discovery, Annautaq was transported to the Alaska SeaLife Center for stabilization and intensive rehabilitation. Although he responded well to treatment, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service determined he could not be released back into the wild. He was subsequently flown approximately 4,800 miles to Florida.

Annautaq is currently undergoing a 30-day quarantine at SeaWorld Orlando, where he receives 24-hour support and up to six bottle feedings per day. Once the quarantine period concludes, he will be introduced to the park’s existing walrus herd, which includes Uki, Kaboodle, and Garfield.