ET Back on Exhibit at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium

32-year-old Pacific walrus had been off exhibit for about six weeks due to serious illness

TACOMA, Wash. – Pacific walrus E.T. rejoined two other walruses on exhibit at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium on Tuesday. The 32-year-old Pacific walrus had been off exhibit for about six weeks due to serious illness.

E.T. spent about six hours on exhibit Tuesday and was back in the main pool in the Rocky Shores area of the zoo today.

“Overall, we’re very pleased with his recovery,” Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium head veterinarian Dr. Karen Wolf said.

E.T.’s  appetite has returned, and he is eagerly eating his seafood diet, Wolf said.

E.T. fell ill on May 12, suffering from lethargy and lack of appetite due to a gastrointestinal infection.

Wolf listed him in “guarded” condition for several weeks.

He appears to be recovered,” she said. “He’s regaining his strength and his overall body condition is improving.”

E.T., classified as a geriatric walrus at 32 years old, is receiving medications for arthritis, she added. He weighs about 3,000 pounds.

Veterinarians and zookeepers will limit E.T.’s swimming time in the main exhibit pool until they’re certain he’s regained his stamina, Wolf said.

They will continue to monitor his attitude, behavior, and appetite daily and will assess his health status through routine blood work.

E.T. came to Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium in 1982 as an orphaned calf.