Where do Pacific walruses undertake dramatic seasonal migration movements during the winter months?
Answer
Congregating throughout the Bering Strait and concentrating in the Bering Sea
The Pacific walrus population engages in significant, dynamic seasonal migration dictated by the advance and retreat of sea ice over the continental shelf where they feed. While they move far north into the Chukchi Sea during the summer months, the onset of winter necessitates a major shift southward. During this time, these large groups move back south to establish overwintering grounds. These areas are specifically identified as congregating throughout the Bering Strait and concentrating along the Bering Sea, covering the southern coast of Alaska and the eastern coast of Siberia.
Related Questions
What is the approximate population size of the Atlantic walrus (*Odobenus rosmarus rosmarus*)?What does the scientific name *Odobenus rosmarus* translate to, referencing the animal's behavior?What term locally refers to the massive, traditional coastal haul-out sites where Pacific walruses aggregate when sea ice vanishes?What critical intersection of features dictates the establishment location for walrus populations?Which specific regions spanning the United States and Russia are dominated by the much larger Pacific walrus population?What significant historical southern limit did the Atlantic walrus range once reach off the coast of Nova Scotia?Why do Atlantic walruses in island chains like the Canadian Arctic tend to rest on land more routinely than their Pacific relatives?Where do Pacific walruses undertake dramatic seasonal migration movements during the winter months?Which European archipelago is cited as one of the most reliable and accessible places to observe Atlantic walruses hauled out during summer and autumn retreats?When observing walruses, what behavior should viewers avoid due to the risk of causing deadly stampedes?