Thousands of Pacific walrus have returned to the northwest coast of Alaska in what scientists say is a sad annual sign of climate change. Once again, melting sea ice has left the animals with nowhere to go but the shores of Point Lay, Alaska.
According to Associated Press, the walrus have been swimming to Point Lay for nearly eight years as the sea ice they rely on for survival disappears at a record pace. Unable to swim for long stretches, the marine mammals rest on ice and between dives for clams, snails and other food. Mothers will also often leave walrus pups on the ice as they hunt.
Officials from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife service have advised Alaska residents avoid large groups of the animals that are prone to stampedes when gathered in large numbers. Easily scared by loud noises such as helicopters or planes, the walrus are prone to stampedes that often kill pups who can't keep up.
(More: 35,000 Walrus Come Ashore)
The sudden migration to U.S. shores comes just one week before President Barack Obama is scheduled to visit the Alaska Arctic to raise attention to the climate change issue. The Guardian reports that Obama is the first president in history to tour the area.
This year’s haul comes early. In 2014, an estimated 35,000 walrus were seen five miles north of Point Lay, but didn’t arrive until October. The animals are also known to congregate on Russian shores in the summer.
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