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?
Answer
Svalbard (Norway)
For observers seeking reliable sightings of the Atlantic walrus, the Svalbard archipelago, located in European Arctic waters and belonging to Norway, stands out as a premier location. This population has demonstrated a remarkable recovery following the cessation of commercial hunting, growing to over 5,000 individuals by 2018. Specific, well-known gathering spots such as Poolepynten, Torellneset, and Smeerenburg are frequently visited by expedition groups, making observations during the summer and autumn months, when sea ice retreats, particularly dependable compared to sighting patterns in other parts of the Atlantic range.
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?