Freya walrus could be killed if the public doesn’t keep their distance, Norway warns | World News

Authorities have warned that Norway’s famous walrus Freya could die if the public does not keep a safe distance from the animal.

The 600kg icon, named after the Norse goddess of beauty and love, became famous for her antics that included climbing into small boats and sinking them with her large frame.

However, the Norwegian Fisheries Ministry has warned the public is getting too close to the animal, jeopardizing their safety and Freya’s rights.

The ministry warned that “further measures” such as euthanasia are under consideration.

Senior communications adviser at the Directorate of Fisheries, Nadia Jdaini, said: “Our biggest fear is that people might get hurt.

“The assessment of the Directorate of Fisheries is negligent behavior, not complying with the recommendations of the authorities, which can endanger life and health.”

The ministry added that there is evidence some people threw objects at Freya, bathed with her and took pictures near the water’s edge where she was bathing.

The department is in contact with police and veterinarians to discuss next steps, as patrol boats observe the situation.

Pictures released by the ministry show adults and children in Kadettamgen being “close and private” with the walrus, despite the warnings.

While she has given some local boat owners headaches, Freya has become quite enthralled with near-daily updates from the local media about her sightings, with distinctive pink spots on the nose.

She spent time this summer in the Oslofjord, a gateway to the southeast of Norway.

Worried about Freya’s condition

The walrus usually lives in herds in the Arctic, further north than where she was discovered.

But with the attention that has come with Freya’s popularity, the Department has raised concerns about her condition and is in constant communication with the vet.

Ms Jdaini said the walrus was not getting enough rest and experts who spoke to the ministry assumed she was under stress.

Director of Fisheries, Frank Bakke-Jensen, said it would be very difficult to move Freya and if she died, it would be for safety reasons.

Mr. Bakke-Jensen said: “It’s a wild animal far from its natural habitat. Then it’s unpredictable how it will act. Above all, we ask people to listen. what we say, seriously recommend and keep your distance”.

He added that in the worst case, they would have to kill Freya.