Greenland, lying mainly in the Arctic Circle, is the world’s largest island. It was first explored by Eric the Red in 985. He named it “Grønland” merely to attract potential settlers; the name had little to do with real environmental conditions. The Vikings used Greenland as a base for further westward exploration and expansion.
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Odebenus rosmarus - A male walrus is approximately 3.6 meters long and can weigh up to 2,000 kilos. The tusks of a mature male can grow to 1.2 meters; both sexes have tusks. The tusks are used for defense and digging into the ice to open or maintain breathing holes. They also serve as grappling hooks; the walrus will dig their tusks into the ice for support when hauling their massive bodies out of the water. A spread of heavy bristles sprouting from the upper lip serve as sensitive feelers when submerged and foraging for food.
