The role of tusks is primarily social. Walruses use them in dominance displays, and they are only secondarily used as weapons. A male will fight if another male intrudes upon him during a courtship display. These fights often result in physical injury. The frequent scars and lacerations seen on the necks and shoulders of adult males after the breeding season are evidence of tusking.
Individuals frequently compete for the most favorable haul-out sites.
Vocalizations are an important part of a male's courtship display for females 5. Adult walruses occasionally trample walrus calves, but this is generally accidental rather than aggressive behavior. All Rights Reserved.