Walrus calf rescued in Alaska, receiving 'round-the-clock cuddling'

Aug. 7 (UPI) -- Marine rescuers in Alaska said a rare walrus calf found wandering alone about 4 miles from the sea was brought in for care and is currently receiving "round-the-clock cuddling."

The Alaska SeaLife Center said the calf was found Aug. 1 on the North Slope, inland from the Beaufort Sea, and experts determined it would not survive for much longer without assistance.

It was unclear how the walrus came to be so far from the water.

The calf was taken to a warehouse to spend the night and was transferred to the Alaska SeaLife Center in Seward the following day. Workers determined the walrus was dehydrated, malnourished and suffering from a cloudy eye. They said there is also the possibility of infection.

"Walruses are highly tactile and social animals, receiving near-constant care from their mothers during the first two years of life," the center said in a news release. "To emulate this maternal closeness, round-the-clock cuddling is being provided to ensure the calf remains calm and develops in a healthy manner."

The center said the walrus quickly adjusted and is feeding from a bottle.

A follow-up Facebook post said the calf was continuing to eat and appeared alert during the weekend.