But Why: A Podcast for Curious Kids

Episode: Why Do Walruses Look So Weird?
Release Date: May 9, 2025

In this engaging bonus episode of But Why: A Podcast for Curious Kids, host Jane Lindholm dives deep into the intriguing world of walruses alongside marine biologist Adam Ratner from the Marine Mammal Center in Sausalito, California. Tailored for young inquisitive minds, the episode addresses various questions posed by children, unraveling the mysteries behind the unique appearance and behaviors of walruses.

Introduction to Walruses

Jane Lindholm sets the stage by referencing the previous episode, which focused on seals and sea lions, and introduces walruses as the third type of pinniped worthy of exploration.

Jane Lindholm [00:33]:
"Our last episode was all about four flippered, carnivorous, ocean-dwelling mammals... but we did not talk about the third. Do you remember what it is? Walruses."

Meeting the Expert: Adam Ratner

Adam Ratner, a marine biologist at the Marine Mammal Center, provides expertise on walruses. He explains why walruses weren’t covered in the previous episode and shares his enthusiasm for these remarkable creatures.

Adam Ratner [02:35]:
"I would love to take care of a walrus. Let me just start by saying that... walruses only live up in the Arctic in the cold water."

Physical Characteristics of Walruses

Adam delves into the distinctive physical traits that set walruses apart from other marine mammals. He highlights their impressive size, long flippers, substantial blubber, prominent tusks, and charming mustaches.

Adam Ratner [03:23]:
"So big. So these animals are like £4,000. So that's like most of an NFL football team, like, put together to make this walrus... and of course, the things that make walruses really special are those tusks."

Walrus Teeth and Diet

Responding to Jacob, a five-year-old from Gorham, Maine, Adam explains the functional design of walrus teeth. He describes how their tusks aid in foraging for clams and navigating ice floes.

Jacob [04:09]:
"Why do walruses have long teeth?"

Adam Ratner [04:56]:
"They have almost all molars because they eat clams... they've got a full mouth of molars to help them eat their food."

Migration Patterns of Walruses

Andy, a five-year-old from Boston, Massachusetts, wonders about walrus migration. Adam clarifies that walruses do migrate, but their movements are confined within the Arctic Circle as they seek different food sources.

Andy [05:35]:
"Why don't they just stay in the north?"

Adam Ratner [05:35]:
"They might move from different beaches and ice flows to go find different food."

Habitat Distribution: North vs. South Pole

Katara, a six-year-old from St. Petersburg, Florida, questions why walruses reside only in the Northern Hemisphere. Adam attributes this to historical habitat establishment and evolutionary preferences.

Katara [06:30]:
"Why do walruses only live in the North Pole? Why don't they live in the South Pole?"

Adam Ratner [06:44]:
"They came to the Arctic a long, long time ago and realized that that is their favorite place to be."

Unique Behaviors and Social Structures

Adam shares captivating insights into walrus behavior, emphasizing their long parental bonds and diverse vocalizations. He notes that walrus calves stay with their mothers for one to two years, fostering strong family ties.

Adam Ratner [07:28]:
"Walruses... can make lots of different sounds, both in water and out of water... they make a whole bunch of different, very cool sounds."

Vocalizations of Walruses

During a light-hearted moment, the podcast plays actual walrus sounds to illustrate Adam's description of their varied vocalizations, highlighting their complexity compared to other pinnipeds.

Adam Ratner [08:17]:
"They can make... a sound that sounds like a gutter, like rain, like flushing of a toilet almost."

Adam Ratner's Journey and Passion

Towards the end of the episode, Adam reflects on his career path and dedication to marine conservation. He explains his transition from research to active rehabilitation work, driven by a desire to protect and understand marine mammals.

Adam Ratner [09:26]:
"I realized that I couldn't just stay on a boat or be in a windowless lab. I wanted to help give them a second chance."

Conclusion and Further Engagement

The episode concludes with Jane thanking Adam and encouraging listeners to learn more about the Marine Mammal Center. She also invites curious kids to submit their own questions for future episodes.

Key Takeaways

• Habitat: Walruses are exclusive to the Arctic Circle, thriving in cold waters and ice floes.
• Physical Traits: Distinctive tusks and mustaches, long flippers, and thick blubber are hallmark features.
• Diet and Teeth: Primarily consume clams, equipped with molars adapted for crushing shells.
• Migration: Movements occur within the Arctic, driven by food availability.
• Social Behavior: Strong maternal bonds and a wide range of vocalizations characterize their social interactions.
• Conservation Efforts: Dedicated individuals like Adam Ratner play a crucial role in protecting these marine giants.

This episode of But Why not only answers children's burning questions about walruses but also fosters a deeper appreciation for marine biology and conservation. Through engaging discussions and expert insights, young listeners are encouraged to stay curious and explore the wonders of the natural world.