SeaWorld Orlando welcomes rescued baby walrus Annautaq

Annautaq, a five-month-old male Pacific walrus calf, has moved to SeaWorld Orlando following a successful rehabilitation process. The calf, weighing approximately 220 pounds, was originally discovered alone on a remote beach in northern Alaska by wildlife researcher Violet Anniskett and U.S. Geological Survey scientist Tony Fischbach.

After being found in a vulnerable state, the calf was stabilized at the Alaska SeaLife Center in Seward. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service eventually determined that Annautaq could not be released back into the wild. He has since completed a 4,000-mile journey to Florida, joining one of only four U.S. institutions capable of housing walruses.

At SeaWorld Orlando, Annautaq is undergoing a standard 30-day quarantine period. His care team provides up to six bottle feedings daily using a specialized high-fat formula designed to mimic natural walrus milk. Because young walruses require significant companionship, specialists are providing constant contact and social support during his transition.