[6] While in Scarborough, Thor was seen masturbating,[7][8] showing he had reached sexual maturity, which in walrus is typically at age 8–10 years.

[4][11] Whilst Thor was in Calshot, the British Divers Marine Life Rescue issued warnings to the public to not get too close to the walrus and kept a cordon up to allow him to rest.

Scarborough's New Year fireworks were cancelled after concerns arose after Marine Mammal Medics witnessed him becoming stressed at flashing lights from vehicles.

[12] Thor's masturbatory behaviour in front of a large crowd of spectators was videoed, which went viral, with over 4 million views by 3 January 2023.

[8] Em Mayman, Yorkshire & Lincolnshire Assistant Coordinator for British Divers Marine Life Rescue praised the decision made to cancel the fireworks as a big step forward for animal welfare.