Celebated walrus Freya put down by Norway

The celebrity boat-climbing walrus Freya was euthanased by Norwegian authorities, who said she was posing a risk to humans after drawing large crowds in Oslo Fjord.

The 600 - kilogram female walrus became a popular attraction in Norway in recent weeks.

The authorities have warned people not to get close and pose for pictures with the massive marine mammal.

Freya had previously been seen in the Netherlands, Denmark, Sweden, England and Scotland, where she clambered onto small boats, causing damage.

She was first seen relaxing on top of a submarine in the Netherlands.

Walruses are protected and officials said last month they hoped Freya would leave her own accord and that euthanasia would be a last resort.

Norway's Directorate of Fisheries said Freya was put down early Sunday based on an assessment of the continued threat to human safety based on on on-site observations the past week, it was made clear that the public has disregarded the current recommendation to keep a clear distance to the walrus.

The directorate concluded that the possibility of potential harm to people was high and animal welfare was not maintained. The directorate, Frank Bakke-Jensen, said other options - including moving the animal elsewhere - were considered. The authorities concluded that it wasn't a viable option.

We sympathies for the fact that the decision can cause a reaction from the public, but I am firm that this is the right call, Mr Bakke-Jensen said.

Wildlife conservationists shaming Norway's authorities for killing Freya caused a lot of backlash on social media.

It is unusual for them to travel into the North and Baltic Seas.

Another walrus, nicknamed Wally, was seen last year on beaches and even a lifeboat dock in Wales and elsewhere.