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Human Threat on the Walrus The walrus has been hunted for hundreds of years. Walruses today are protected from commercial fishing but continue to be an important species for the Native peoples of the arctic, contributing both for food and raw material for tools and art. The management of walrus populations is difficult due to their wide range, marine existence and uncertain population description. In addition, pollution is a growing concern in all marine species. Here follows a description of the Walrus and how humans are a threat to the existence of the Walrus. The walrus is the only seal with extended tusks. Both genders have tusks but the males are longer and straighter. Walruses have a relatively small head in relation to their bodies. The face is flattened and the upper lip is covered with short stiff body hair. They are generally brown in color but it varies with age and sex. The young are dark brown and can appear black. The oldest males have the palest color, with a whitish appearance. Walruses live in the Arctic waters. Two subspecies are recognized, the Atlantic walrus, and the Pacific walrus (Fay 1985). The subspecies occupy geographically distinct areas and differ in size. The Pacific walrus inhabit the Bering