Anchorage, Alaska - United States Attorney Karen L. Loeffler and Ryan Noel, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Alaska Region, provide the following information on the incident involving walrus deaths near Cape Lisburne, Alaska. On Sept. 16, 2015, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Alaska Region, received a report that approximately 25 walrus, including calves, had been killed on the coast of Alaska, near Cape Lisburne, and that some were missing tusks. We followed up on this initial report on Sept. 18, and opened an investigation. To protect the integrity of the investigation we are no longer able to comment on this incident.
The taking of marine mammals is prohibited by the Marine Mammal Protection act, with certain exceptions, including the non-wasteful take for subsistence purposes by Alaska Natives living along the coast. Pacific Walruses make up an important part of the diet of many coastal Alaska Natives. Tusks, bones, and hides are used to make authentic Native Alaskan handicrafts, as well as many of the items necessary to continue a subsistence way of life. For example, walrus hides are occasionally used for covers for wooden boat frames and tusks were traditionally used for harpoon points, fish hooks and knives.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Marine Mammals Management office works closely with Tribal governments and Alaska Native organizations, such as the Eskimo Walrus and Qayassiq Walrus Commissions. Together we co-manage the Pacific walrus population and ensure that it remains a functioning component of the arctic ecosystem and a sustainable subsistence resource.
If you are interested in learning more about walrus, please visit the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services’ walrus page, and the U.S. Geological Survey’s web page.
If someone suspects a federal violation that involves migratory birds, marine mammals, endangered species, or wildlife smuggling, they should report them directly and immediately to: the U.S Fish and Wildlife Service Office of Law Enforcement at http://www.fws.gov/le/contact-us.html, or call 1-844-FWS-TIPS (1-844-397-8477). To report violations in Alaska, please call 1-844-491-3709, or email ak_le@fws.gov.
Source: U.S. Department of Justice, Office of the United States Attorneys
