Authorities on Sunday euthanized a walrus that drew crowds off the coast of Oslo, Norway, due to "the possibility for potential harm to people."

"Freya" drew attention for hopping on top of docked boats. The female walrus, which weighed over 1,300 pounds, eventually was causing substantial damage to the boats, and was a threat to attack observers, many of whom got too close to her, often to take pictures.

Walruses are protected marine mammals. Officials had hoped Freya would leave on her own and said euthanasia was the last resort.

"Through on-site observations the past week it was made clear that the public has disregarded the current recommendation to keep a clear distance to the walrus," Norway's Directorate of Fisheries said in a statement.

"Therefore, the Directorate has concluded, the possibility for potential harm to people was high and animal welfare was not being maintained," the directorate said.

The Directorate of Fisheries also noted that it has empathy for the life of the animal because walruses are protected, but that the safety of people was more important.

"We have sympathies for the fact that the decision can cause a reaction from the public, but I am firm that this was the right call," said Frank Bakke-Jensen, the head of the directorate.

"We have great regard for animal welfare, but human life and safety must take precedence," he said.

Many took to social media to express dismay with the decision to euthanize the walrus.