Norway’s popular walrus Freya could be euthanised if the public does not keep a safe distance away from the animal, authorities have warned.

The 600kg icon, nicknamed after the Norse goddess of beauty and love, has become known for her antics which include climbing onto small boats and sinking them with her big frame.

But the Norwegian Fisheries Ministry has warned the public is coming too close to the animal, endangering their safety and Freya’s welfare.

The department warned that “further measures” such as euthanasia are being looked at.

Senior communications adviser at the Directorate of Fisheries, Nadia Jdaini, said: “Our biggest fear is that people could get hurt.

“The Directorate of Fisheries’ assessment is that the public’s negligent behaviour and failure to follow the recommendations from the authorities can endanger life and health”.

The ministry added that there is evidence some people have thrown objects at Freya, bathed alongside her and taken pictures near the edge of the water where she is bathing.

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The ministry is in contact with police and vets to discuss further measures, as patrol vessels observe the situation.

Images released by the ministry show adults and children at Kadettamgen get “up close and personal” with the walrus, despite warnings.

While she’s caused a headache for some local boat owners, Freya has become quite the attraction with almost daily updates from local media about her sightings, with her distinctive pink spot by her nose.

She has been spotted spending time this summer in Oslofjord, an inlet in the south-east of Norway.

Concerns over Freya’s condition

Walruses normally live in herds in the Arctic, further north from where she has been spotted.

But with the attention that comes with Freya’s fame, the ministry has raised concerns over her condition and is in continuous contact with a vet.

Ms Jdaini said the walrus does not get enough rest and professionals speaking with the ministry consider her to be stressed.

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