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Norwegian authorities have put down a walrus that drew crowds in Oslo amid concerns it posed a risk to humans.
The 600kg female, affectionately known as Freya, has become a popular attraction in Norway in recent weeks, despite officials warning people not to approach the large marine mammal and pose for pictures.
Freya likes to climb on boats and do damage to them.
The walrus is under protection, and just last month officials said they hoped Freya would leave voluntarily and that euthanasia would be a last resort.
The Norwegian Fisheries Agency said Freya was ousted early on Sunday “based on an overall assessment of the continuing threat to human security”.
“Through field observations over the past week, it is clear that the public is ignoring current advice to keep their distance from walruses,” a spokesman said.
“As a result, the bureau concluded that the potential for harm to humans was high and animal welfare was not maintained.”
Frank Buck-Jensen, head of the bureau, said other options were considered – including moving the animals elsewhere – but authorities did not believe that was a viable option.
“We sympathize with the fact that this decision may have caused a public reaction, but I firmly believe it was the right decision,” Mr Buck-Jensen said. “We take animal welfare very seriously, but human life and safety must come first.”
Atlantic walruses usually live in the Arctic. Their trips to the North Sea and Baltic Sea are unusual, but not unheard of.
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