CONEY ISLAND -- Akituusaq, the first Pacific walrus ever born in the New York Aquarium, died Sept. 1 due to complications from pneumonia.
The walrus had been under special care by Wildlife Conservation Society veterinarians.
"We are deeply saddened by the loss of our beloved walrus Akituusaq,” said Jon Forrest Dohlin, director of the New York Aquarium “We know Brooklyn was proud of Akituusaq and many loved him.
Akituusaq was the first Pacific walrus born in the Aquarium’s 113 year history, born on June 12, 2007. Walrus births in aquariums are very rare, with very few surviving to one year of age.
