About Walrus Advocates of Round Island Sanctuary
Round Island Sanctuary consists of a group of islands located in Bristol Bay. The main walrus haul-out occurs on Round Island, and a support crew has been on the island for 39 years. The summer of 2014, the state of Alaska zeroed out the funding for staffing Round Island. Remote camping by permit has been allowed, Fish and Game has found funds through various means each year and staff are out there to assist permitted guests, however, this future is not secure.
Thankfully, other entities have stepped in for the 2015 and 2016 season to staff Round Island. We are grateful to them and ask their continued assistance to keep the walrus and other wildlife safe. The Annenberg Foundation, 2015 donors, placed web cams on the island through explore.org, Alaska Sea life Center, Point Defiance Zoo, and Aquarium of Tacoma, Georgia Aquarium of the Atlantic, Milwaukee based Oceans of Fun, Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium and the Pacific Walrus Conservation Fund. Please let these groups know how much we appreciate their donation.
Created in 1960, the Walrus Islands Sanctuary was the first in Alaska. The islands are also home to Sea lions, seals, fox and over 250,000 birds. over 100 various species have been documented. some more common species are kittiwakes, Murres, cormorants, puffins, auklets, gulls and guillemots.
Pacific Walrus (Odobenus Rosmarus) can weigh up to 2 tons. They have tusks of ivory which make them vulnerable to poaching. Walrus are sensitive to noise disturbance. They may appear almost white in the cold water and tend to pink up on land while at rest. Walrus are quite social. Only the males are found hauled out on Round Island.
Round Island also is home to Sea Lions, fox and many migratory birds.
for those wishing to visit the sanctuary. permits are required and can be obtained at Alaska Fish and Game website adfg.alaska.gov, Walrus Islands State Game Sanctuary. it is a remote site with a cook tent, tent platforms and outhouse facilities. it is an adventure to get to Round Island, however it is a magical place.
Make a donation!
Support the walrus population of Round Island by donating today!