ET Remains in 'Guarded' Condition

TACOMA, Wash. – Pacific walrus E.T. remains in stable but “guarded” condition today at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, where a team of veterinarians continues to assess his health status daily and provide comprehensive care for a serious illness that developed last week.

The 3,350-pound walrus remains behind the scenes at the zoo during his treatment.

The zoo’s two other walruses, Joan and Basilla, are still on exhibit.

E.T. got into the water and swam a bit over the weekend, head veterinarian Dr. Karen Wolf said.

But he is not eating and exhibits the behavior of an animal that does not feel well, she added.

The zoo’s veterinary staff is closely monitoring E.T.’s blood work for signs of abnormalities and is consulting on his care with veterinarians at other zoos, Wolf said.

The 32-year-old E. T. became lethargic and began refusing food last week. Veterinarians determined he was suffering from an infection.

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