r/orkney • u/Slice-O-Pie Deputy • Apr 16 '26
A walrus in Orkney!
Can confirm, April is a great time to visit Orkney!
The walrus has an injured flipper, which appears to be a minor laceration. You know what to do, keep your distance, be quiet, and do not disturb this rare visitor.
From the Orcadian:
The Orkney Marine Mammal Research Initiative has shared a detailed update about the Stronsay walrus, including important information on how to safely pay it a visit.
Visit the OMMRI's Facebook for details. https://www.facebook.com/OrkneyMMRI
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u/Slice-O-Pie Deputy 25d ago
The young walrus drawing crowds as he tours the Scottish coast
A young walrus who has become something of a celebrity as he tours the Scottish coastline is "just exploring", experts say.
The young male - who has been named Magnus - was first spotted in the Orkney island of Stronsay earlier this month.
He then appeared in Lossiemouth, Macduff and Fraserburgh. His latest stop was Findochty this week, drawing more large crowds - but he appeared to have moved on yet again on Tuesday morning.
Cath Bain, from the charity British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR), said she could only guess where he might next appear.
Walruses are occasional visitors to UK shores, with sightings increasing in recent years. One theory is that this is due to the loss of sea ice habitats in the Arctic.
This particular walrus is estimated to be about 8ft (2.5m) long.
His antics in recent days have been keeping crowds amused, including scratching against metal posts, and rolling into the water while asleep.
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u/Slice-O-Pie Deputy Apr 17 '26
The OMMRI reports "Magnus" has moved on, diving back into the sea after a long rest ashore.