The Day of Walrus, A Keystone Animal of the Russian Arctic

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On Monday, 24 November, International Walrus Day is observed. This date has gained particular popularity in countries where these animals are found in their natural habitat. In Russia, the walrus has become one of the symbols of our Arctic, and the National Centre RUSSIA is the place where you can learn more about the region. To do this, just come to visit the "Journey Across Russia" exposition.

In 2011, on the initiative of nature conservation organisations, Walrus Day was celebrated for the first time. Its aim is to draw attention to the problems of preserving walrus populations and their habitat. In Russia, this date serves as a reminder of how important it is to protect the Arctic ecosystem. Researchers, environmentalists, and animal rights activists hold educational events where they talk about the walruses, their role in the Arctic ecosystem, and the need to protect these animals from climate change and human activity.

The National Centre RUSSIA is one of the key venues for discussions on both the development of the Arctic and the environmental agenda. For instance, in September, it was here that the "Arctic Dossier" — Russia's national report on ecosystem restoration — was presented. Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Patrushev and Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Alexander Kozlov spoke about large-scale environmental projects, land reclamation, the modernisation of the research and expedition fleet, and the work of volunteers.

To preserve the Arctic ecosystem, specially protected natural territories of federal significance have been established in Russia, with a total area of approximately 40 million hectares. Accumulated environmental damage is being actively dealt with in the region: lands are being cleared of waste dumps and disturbed areas are being restored.

The walrus is a large mammal. Adults can reach up to 3.5 metres in length and weigh more than 1.5 tonnes. Even newborn walrus calves weigh about 60 kilograms. Their most recognisable feature is their tusks, which can be up to one metre long. Male walruses need them to break ice, fight for territory, and attract females during the mating season. The harsh Arctic conditions are no obstacle for walruses thanks to a thick layer of blubber — the subcutaneous fat that helps them retain heat.

Walruses are extremely social animals and live in large colonies. They spend much of their time on the ice surface and in the water, hunting for crustaceans and fish. Walruses are an important part of Arctic ecosystems, being both predators and prey for other animals, such as polar bears.

Walruses inhabit the coasts and islands of the Chukchi, East Siberian, and Barents Seas. Large walrus rookeries are located in Chukotka, on Wrangel Island, in the area of the Franz Josef Land archipelago, and near the Kara Sea. You can learn about these territories at the displays of the Far Eastern Federal District and the Northwestern Federal District at the "Journey Across Russia" exposition.

The exposition of the Northwestern Federal District at the National Centre RUSSIA introduces guests to the wealth and diversity of the region: from the unique minerals of the Kola Peninsula and Arctic tourism to cultural landmarks and the nation's maritime power. It showcases the treasures of the earth and natural wonders of the North, the life of indigenous peoples, famous monuments in Karelia and Kaliningrad, as well as the role played by the Northern Sea Route and the nuclear icebreaker fleet. It shares the theatrical legacy of St. Petersburg and Arkhangelsk, and speaks of the significance of ports and the legendary barque "Sedov" in global maritime history. The exposition brings together the natural, cultural, and economic wealth of the Northwestern Federal District, revealing its key role in Russia's development to visitors.