Wally the walrus gets his own pontoon after wreaking havoc on Scilly Isles
The giant blubbery mammal had been frustrating boat owners by sleeping on - and even capsizing - their vessels.
A custom-built pontoon has been made for a giant walrus who’s been up to a lot of mischief on the Isles of Scilly.
Affectionately named Wally, the 2,000lb mammal went on a tour of the UK after crossing the Atlantic on a sheet of ice.
Wally was recently seen taking a particular liking to the Scillies off the coast of Cornwall – but boat owners’ patience has been ‘wearing thin’.
He has capsized a number of boats and rendered others unusable on the island of St Mary’s after napping on them for up to 42 hours.
Now naval officials have constructed a customised pontoon, using Wally’s own smell to make it feel like home.
They’re also letting him use the Star of Life ambulance boat in between emergency call-outs, and encourage boaters to give him a gentle push with an oar if he approaches.
This new plan was hatched by British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR), Isles of Scilly Wildlife Trust, Cornwall Seal Group Research Trust and the St Mary’s Harbour Team.
A spokesperson for the groups said: ‘Since the pontoon’s deployment the walrus has found it and has now returned on a number of occasions in between feeding excursions.
‘The situation is being monitored and it may be possible to re-locate the pontoon outside the harbour area to reduce disturbance and enable him to rest more effectively.
‘In the meantime all boats owners and water users have been asked to give the walrus space and refrain from actively moving towards him, but the temptation has proved too strong for many.
‘The walrus is a highly protected species and disturbance of this nature is a criminal offence.
‘Even a lift of the head means his rest has been interrupted. Please stay away from him.’
Animal welfare groups believe Wally initially came across the ocean from Greenland on an ice floe.
He was first seen in Ireland before taking up residence in Tenby, Pembrokeshire in March.
Authorities in Wales found it an ‘absolute nightmare’ trying to keep people away from the walrus and reported reckless tourists approaching on jet-skis, paddleboards and even flying drones around him.
Wally quickly left the area and has enjoyed an extended stay in the Scillies – even if not everyone appreciates his larger than life presence.
Experts say the new pontoon will not prevent Wally from eventually resuming his sea quest – and that when he has the energy, he will move on.
MORE : Walrus spotted in Cornwall for first time thought to be Wally last seen in Wales
MORE : Wally the walrus spotted sunbathing on back of boat after returning to UK
MORE : Naga Munchetty confuses person for an actual walrus on BBC Breakfast – really
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