Public Warned to Keep Distance From Wally the Walrus

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The public have been urged to keep their distance from Cork's most famous sea-dweller, as the animal may be stressed and injured.

On Tuesday Wally was photographed taking a rest in a speed boat. The news led to fans flocking to Crookhaven harbour to catch a glimpse of the animal celeb.

Sea Rescue Ireland has since appealed to the public to give the 800kg mammal the space he requires. They are worried he may have become injured following disturbances by onlookers.

SRI sent a rib boat out into the waters near Wally, hoping he will use it to take rest. The group took to Facebook to get the message out concerning Wally's well-being.

"PLEASE RESPECT WILDLIFE FROM A SAFE DISTANCE," the post began. "Observers have noted [Wally] has been quite stressed and agitated from the repeated disturbances caused by boats, kayaks and paddleboards, and has a potential injury from being forced off and on the boat repeatedly."

"A designated rib has been set out since, which will hopefully lure him away from other boats to reduce property damage, and we are working with the local community to monitor him there until he has rested enough to continue on his long journey," the post continued. "We want to thank the many stakeholders who have collaborated on this effort! If you spot the walrus, we ask you to: -Please avoid approaching him within 100m (this includes boats, kayaks, swimming or on foot). This is a sensitive species that is easily disturbed and he must be able to rest for his long journey back to Arctic waters. Please resist the urge to share his exact location publicly until there is a system in place for him to be monitored throughout the day, with a safe, designated haul-out site for him to rest on undisturbed."

 

In recent weeks Wally has been spotted in Cornwall, France and even as far south as Spain.

SRI are requesting anyone who spots Wally to contact their hotline at 087 195 5393.
 

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