What critical limb rotation allows walruses to walk or clamber across land or ice?
Answer
Rotating hind flippers forward under the pelvic girdle
The walrus possesses anatomical features that allow it to transition effectively between water and ice, distinguishing it from true seals that typically only wriggle on land. A key feature shared with sea lions is the ability to rotate their hind flippers. Specifically, the walrus can pivot its hind flippers forward so they are positioned underneath the pelvic girdle. This rotation enables the animal to engage all four limbs—foreflippers and hind flippers—to actively support its body weight, facilitating actual walking, clambering, or moving across heterogeneous landscapes like fractured pack ice or steep banks.
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