Notes and Queries, Vol. V, Number 120, February 14, 1852 / A Medium of Inter-communication for Literary Men, Artists, Antiquaries, Genealogists, etc.

by Various

IS THE WALRUS FOUND IN THE BALTIC?

Is the Walrus, or Sea-Horse, ever found in the Baltic, or in the ocean near Norway or Lapland?

Mr. J. R. Forster, in his Notes on the Geography of Europe by King Alfred, appended to the edition of Orosius by Daines Barrington, says, at p. 243.:

"In the country of the Beormas he (Ohthere) found the horse-whales or the Walrus, animals which he distinguishes carefully from the whales and the seals, of whose teeth he brought a present to King Alfred, and which are found nowhere but in the White Sea, near Archangel, and the other seas to the north of Siberia. In all the ocean near Norway and Lapland, no walruses are ever seen, but still less in the Baltic."

I wish to know if the walrus is found in the Baltic, and where it most abounds, with a reference to voyages or written works of authority where it is mentioned. Personal testimony would be valuable.

THROW.