A popular walrus in the Norwegian capital has been put down by authorities over fears it posed a risk to people.
Freya, a 600kg animal named after the Norse goddess of beauty and love, has become known in recent weeks for antics including climbing onto small boats and sinking them.
Image: Image: Trond Reidar Teigen/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock
Fans had been warned not to get too close to her, and it was expected that she would eventually leave of her own accord.
But Norway’s Fisheries Directorate said it was dismissed early Sunday “based on an overall assessment of the continuing threat to human security”.
“Through on-site observations last week, it became clear that the public has ignored the current advice to keep a clear distance from walrus,” a spokesman said.
“Therefore, management concluded, the possibility of possible harm to people was high and animal welfare was not maintained.”
Management said on Friday there was evidence of people throwing things at the walrus, swimming next to it and taking pictures near the water’s edge near it.
Chief executive Frank Bakke-Jensen said other options were considered for Freya, including moving her to another location.
But it was decided that this was not a viable option.
Image: Image: Directorate of Fisheries of Norway
“I’m adamant that this was the right call”
Bakke-Jensen said: “We are sympathetic to the fact that the decision may cause backlash among the public, but I am adamant that this was the right call.
“We have a high regard for animal welfare, but the lives and safety of people must come first.”
Walruses are a protected species and usually live in herds in the Arctic, further north.
It was thought that in addition to being away from her usual habitat, Freya was also stressed because she wasn’t getting enough rest.