The Atlantic Walrus

The Atlantic Walrus: Multidisciplinary Insights Into Human-Animal Interactions addresses the key dimensions of long-term human-walrus interactions across the Atlantic Arctic and subarctic regions over the past four thousand years. This book brings together research from across the social and natural sciences to explore walrus biology, human culture, environmental conditions and their reciprocal effects. Together, the thirteen chapters reconstruct the early evolution of walruses, walrus biology, the cultural significance and ecological impact of prehistoric and indigenous hunting practices as well as the effects of commercial hunting and international trade. The book also examines historic and ongoing management strategies, the importance of new research methodologies in revealing hitherto unknown details of the past, and concludes by discussing the future for Atlantic walruses in face of climate change and increased human activities in the Arctic.

This volume is an ideal resource for those seeking to understand an iconic Arctic species and its long and complex relationship with humans. This includes individuals and researchers with a personal or professional connection to walruses or the Arctic, as well as marine biologists, zoologists, conservationists, paleontologists, archaeologists, anthropologists, historians, indigenous communities, natural resource managers and government agencies.

• Consolidates research scattered across fields and academic publications by providing succinct overviews of the biology of Atlantic walrus, as well as human cultures within the North Atlantic Arctic and the surrounding region
• Editorial team of inter-disciplinary researchers ensuring the breadth, depth and integration of material covered throughout the volume
• Thirteen chapters, each authored by leading international researchers and experts on the Atlantic walrus (Odobenus rosmarus rosmarus)
• Considers the inter-relatedness and complexity of species biology, ecological change, human culture, and anthropogenic pressures of walrus while remaining accessible to readers from different disciplines or a more generalist audience
• Draws upon the latest methods in marine mammal and archaeological research
• Assesses historical management of the species versus implemented and future efforts for conservation due to human interference and climate change
• Text supported by striking and insightful new maps and scientific illustrations, ideal for teaching and outreach

Researchers and students in marine biology, conservation biology, climate change studies, and environmental studies

Section I: Atlantic Walrus Evolution, Ecology, and Behavior
1. Atlantic Walrus Evolution
2. General Ecology and Behavior of Atlantic Walruses
3. Current Stocks, Distribution, and Population Estimates

Section II: Indigenous Walrus Roles – 4,000 BC to Present
4. The Role of the Walrus in Artic Indigenous Cultures and Mythology
5. Paleo-Inuit Walrus Use in Article Canada and Greenland
6. Neo-Inuit Walrus Use in Arctic Canada and Greenland – 1250 AD to Present

Section III: Non-Indigenous Walrus Roles – Medieval Times to Present
7. European and Greenlandic Norse (Viking) Walrus Hunting – Methods, Techniques, and Extent
8. Medieval European Ivory Exchange
9. Modern Commercial Atlantic Walrus Exploitation
10. Historical Management of the Atlantic Walrus

Section IV: Future Directions and Innovations in Atlantic Walrus Research
11. Molecular Advances in Archaeological and Biological Research
12. Marine Mammal Monitoring and Drone Technology Applications
13. Future Atlantic Walrus Management and Conservation in a Changing Arctic