A man had a once-in-a-lifetime encounter in a Welsh seaside town that left him in disbelief. James Cook, a popular video creator with 294,700 followers on TikTok, stumbled upon an ultra-rare sight while enjoying the morning sunshine in Tenby. The sight that greeted him was a walrus lounging by the water, a spectacle he described as “completely surreal.” This extraordinary sighting is said to occur less than 10 times in the last three decades, making it a truly remarkable experience.
Walruses are not typically seen in the UK, but sporadic sightings have been reported. In recent years, walruses named Thor and Wally have been spotted in various locations in the UK and Ireland, including as far south as northern Spain. These sightings are often attributed to the impact of climate change on the walruses’ habitats in the Arctic Circle. Despite the rarity of such encounters, James was overwhelmed by the sight before him, expressing his astonishment and gratitude for witnessing such a majestic creature in the town of Tenby.
After sharing his encounter on his social media handle @wildlifewithcookie, James’s post garnered significant attention, amassing 157,000 likes and 1,500 comments. Reactions ranged from awe and wonder to nonchalance, with some noting that the walrus is a recurring visitor to Tenby. While the chances of walruses establishing a permanent presence in the UK are slim due to the region’s geographical location, experts advise caution and respect when encountering these animals. Recommendations include maintaining a safe distance, refraining from disclosing the walrus’s location on social media, and allowing the creature space and tranquillity to preserve its well-being.
This exceptional sighting serves as a reminder of the beauty and diversity of wildlife that graces the shores of the UK, offering a glimpse into the wonders of the natural world. James’s unexpected encounter with the walrus in Tenby showcases the magic of being in the right place at the right time, connecting us with the marvels of the animal kingdom that surround us. The enchanting tale of the ‘lucky’ man and the ‘ultra-rare’ discovery in a quaint Welsh town is a testament to the awe-inspiring moments that await those who venture into the great outdoors.