Her preference for boats as a place to sleep – krone.at reported – and her too close proximity to tourists and spectators in Frognerkilen’s Oslo Bay have now become the downfall of the walrus lady “Freya”. The responsible fisheries directorate in Norway announced on Sunday that the animal, which weighed almost 600 kilograms, was “euthanized in a controlled manner” in the early morning hours.
“Freya” had appeared again and again off the Norwegian capital of Oslo in recent weeks, anchored on boats and developing into a summer attraction. Authorities had repeatedly warned spectators, tourists and residents to keep their distance. The fisheries management was especially annoyed that people had jumped into the water with “Freya” and got very close to the animal with children on the bank to take pictures.
“The decision to euthanize the walrus was made based on an overall assessment of the ongoing threat to human security,” said Director General Frank Bakke-Jensen.
The euthanasia was carried out “humanely” by employees of the Norwegian fisheries management. “Highly qualified and trained personnel performed the job in accordance with the applicable routines and regulations for the euthanasia of marine mammals,” explains Bakke-Jensen.
people in danger
During the on-site observations over the past week, it became clear “that the public was ignoring the current recommendation to keep a clear distance from the walrus. Therefore, the director came to the conclusion that the potential for endangering people is high and that animal welfare is not respected,” the authority justified the move.
“We have carefully considered all possible solutions. We have come to the conclusion that we cannot guarantee the welfare of the animal with any of the available resources,” says Bakke-Jensen. Attempts to relocate the animal were classified as “unfeasible” after consultation with the Norwegian Institute of Marine Research “due to the high degree of complexity”.
“Right choice”
“We understand that the decision may provoke reactions from the public, but I am convinced that it was the right decision. The welfare of the animals is very important to us, but the lives and safety of people must come first,” explains Bakke-Jensen out.
In July, the authorities had wanted to avoid euthanasia at all costs. “Walrus are wild, protected animals that are on the Red List. That means killing is the last option,” it said in a statement at the time.
Source: Krone
I’m Wayne Wickman, a professional journalist and author for Today Times Live. My specialty is covering global news and current events, offering readers a unique perspective on the world’s most pressing issues. I’m passionate about storytelling and helping people stay informed on the goings-on of our planet.
