Wally the Walrus has captured hearts across Europe with his endearing antics, but none more so than his newfound love for a floating couch. As a rare visitor from the Arctic, Wally has been on an epic journey that has taken him far from home, and his need for a comfortable resting spot has led to a creative solution that has charmed the world.

Wally is an Atlantic walrus who first made headlines when he was spotted far from his native Arctic habitat, roaming the coasts of Europe. His journey has taken him from the shores of Ireland to Spain, France, and even the Isles of Scilly. This 800kg (1,760lb) marine mammal has become somewhat of a celebrity, with people eagerly following his adventures.

However, Wally’s travels haven’t been without their challenges. Walruses typically haul out on sea ice to rest, but with the decline of ice in his native Arctic, Wally has been forced to find alternative resting spots. In his search for a place to relax, Wally has inadvertently caused damage to boats and docks, as his massive size and weight are not suited to the fragile structures along the European coastlines.

To help Wally rest without causing further damage, the British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR) team came up with an ingenious idea: a floating couch. This specially designed pontoon was crafted to provide Wally with a safe and stable resting place. The couch was anchored near the Isles of Scilly, where Wally had been spotted lounging on boats, much to the concern of local boat owners.

The floating couch has been a game-changer for Wally. Photos of him sprawled out on this makeshift resting spot, looking as relaxed as ever, quickly went viral. The couch allows Wally to rest comfortably without the risk of damaging property or putting himself in danger. It’s a perfect example of human ingenuity and compassion coming together to help an animal in need.

While Wally’s floating couch might seem like a lighthearted story, it also highlights a more serious issue: the impact of climate change on Arctic wildlife. Wally’s journey far from his native waters is likely linked to the loss of sea ice in the Arctic, forcing him to venture further afield in search of food and resting spots.

Walruses rely heavily on sea ice to haul out and rest between feeding sessions. As the Arctic warms and ice continues to melt, walruses like Wally are left with fewer options, leading to unusual and often hazardous situations. Wally’s story serves as a reminder of the broader environmental challenges facing the Arctic and the species that call it home.

Wally the Walrus has become more than just a viral sensation; he’s a symbol of the resilience of wildlife in the face of climate change. His story has brought attention to the plight of Arctic animals and the need for conservation efforts to protect their habitats.

The BDMLR’s efforts to care for Wally, including the creation of his floating couch, demonstrate how we can adapt to the changing needs of wildlife. By supporting conservation organizations and advocating for climate action, we can help ensure that walruses like Wally have a future in a rapidly changing world.