Wally the Walrus sighted in West Cork but public asked to keep their distance

Update: Seal Rescue Ireland (SRI) has again appealed to the public to keep their distance from Wally the Walrus, after a number of boats were spotted getting "dangerously close" to the walrus as he attempted to rest on a boat in the West Cork area. 

In a Facebook post this evening the charity stated that observers have noted Wally has been "quite stressed and agitated" from the repeated disturbances caused by boats, kayaks and paddleboards, and has "a potential injury from being forced off and on the boat repeatedly".

They appealed to the public to avoid approaching Wally within 100m.

They also asked that sightings of Wally be reported to SRI's 24/7 Rescue Hotline on 087-1955393.

Earlier: West Cork has proven a hit with Wally the Walrus, with Ireland's flippered friend most recently paying a visit to Crookhaven.

The 800kg male walrus has been sighted relaxing on a small pleasure boat in the harbour.

It comes after he was recently spotted near Broadstrand in Courtmacsherry.

The well-travelled walrus was first sighted in Irish waters in March and has since visited Wales, France, Spain, and England.

Now back in Ireland, Wally has left a trail of destruction in his wake, clambering onto small boats and ribs, causing thousands of euro worth of damage. 

Seal Rescue Ireland (SRI) had appealed to the public for an unused rib or pontoon as a hang out spot for the walrus who has become an internet sensation.

Yesterday, the Irish Examiner reported that Wally is to get a ‘floating couch’ in an effort to prevent him from sinking more boats.

SRI's Melanie Croce said the group have now secured a floating pontoon for Wally, which has three raised sides which makes it resemble a couch.

The pontoon is now ready to be deployed in busy harbour areas over the coming days if the walrus returns. 

It is hoped that towels used to catch Wally's scent from the small vessels which he boarded last month will help encourage Wally to use the pontoon.

Ms Croce said the SRI have also secured the use of a disused rib which is easier to transport and install, but their response will depend on where and when the walrus is next sighted.