WALLY the walrus may now be on his way home to the arctic after has was spotted in Iceland.
The Arctic Walrus was first sighted in Ireland in March, before spending a length of time in Pembrokeshire.
Later named Wally, he took up residence in Tenby, charming onlookers and sinking the odd boat.
After leaving Tenby, he was also spotted in Cornwall, France and Spain, before returning to County Cork in Ireland.
Conservationists are concerned that the now-famous mammal was not suited to warmer waters, raising fears he may never return home.
After no reported sightings of him for a number of weeks, yesterday, Seal Rescue Ireland said: “After 22 days with no confirmed sightings, we were starting to lose hope of ever seeing the young, wandering walrus again.
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"However, we just received notice that a similar-looking walrus was sighted yesterday in Iceland, over 900 km away from Wally's last known location in West Cork.
After conferring and comparing photos with the British Divers Marine Life Rescue, it was confirmed that this is Wally.
The groups compared pictures showing similar scars on both front flippers.
“We are absolutely over the moon that he's not only still alive and well, but he is well on his way home to the Arctic,” said Seal Rescue Ireland.
“He was seen swimming back out to sea last night, and even managed to avoid sinking any boats while he was there.
“We are so grateful to the many members of the public who have shown support and love for this walrus by giving him a safe place to rest and gather his strength while visiting our shores ahead of this magnificent journey.
“Thanks to his ability to feed and rest, he has successfully made the long stretch and will hopefully reunite with his own kind again soon. Please always remember to give wildlife space, and put their safety and welfare first.”
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