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Arctic

During the 19th century and the early 20th century, walrus were widely hunted for their blubber, walrus ivory, and meat.

Walrus live mostly in shallow waters above the continental shelves, spending significant amounts of their lives on the sea ice looking for molluscs.

Walruses can weigh more than 4,400 pounds. We were told this group was all males.

Walruses live to about 20–30 years old in the wild. The males reach sexual maturity as early as seven years, but do not typically mate until fully developed at around 15 years of age.

Length typically ranges from 7 ft 3 in to 11 ft 10 in.

These two were funny. There were only a few feet off shore. Kept coming up out of the water to see where we were standing and then disappeared again to another location a few feet away.

After returning to the zodiac and a trip along the coastal shore we encountered some very full of food seals.

Now that is a smile of a full stomach.

From the looks of them I don't think they could eat another once of anything. They are bursting.

Svalbard is home to a huge number of seals. With their thick layers of insulating blubber, true seals, otherwise known as earless seals, are better adapted to these icy waters than are sea lions or fur seals, which are not found in the High Arctic.

Our Expedition Leader, from Argentina, Martin Soliani or "Tincho", was with us the entire trip beginning in Oslo, and in the Arctic adventure. An awesome leader well versed in the Arctic and the Antarctic.

Group ahead of us returning from Zodiac trip

Landing on Torellaesfjellet

Climbing to the top looking back down at our fellow travelers below. It was a good workout in the climb up.

At the seaside a group of Walrus sleeping. I think they do this very well.

In the distance on Hingstsletta the bridge discovers two polar bears on the beach.

It is discovered that the two polar bears are both female. Out of camera range are 2 cubs waiting for their turn to eat too.

It looks like from our vantage point from the zodiac we are on that they are devouring a walrus that may have killed for food.

A quick glance at us and it is back to feeding themselves.

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