[Mr. K]

"A bone which came from the penis of a walrus"

Ok, how do they know this? (no sniggering)

[Young Werther]

The usuk is an environmental adaptaion. Most mammalian penis erections occur when the copulating instinct causes blood to engorge the "tool'. In the Arctic the walrus' habitat is a constant cold shower. Ergo, a bone in the body is extended into the penis during mating events.

I traveled the DEW Line and the site on the Boothia Peninsula had a military bar which was named the Usuk Lounge. A gilded usuk hung over the bar and its size was quite intimidating. It was 38" long and had a gentle curve!

The Canadian military folk that manned this site collected these icons and would present them to visiting dignitaries. I said, "Ahem!" but alas they didn't give me the "bird!"

[Coyoteman]

"A bone which came from the penis of a walrus"

Ok, how do they know this? (no sniggering)

The usik or oosik is well known by anthropologists, biologists and other scientists. Here is a photo:

Oosik is a term used in Alaska to describe the baculum (penile bone) of walruses, seals, sea lions, and polar bears. Sometimes as long as 60 cm (2 ft), it can be polished and used as a handle for knives and other tools. It is also frequently sold as a souvenir to tourists by Alaska Natives, the only people permitted to hunt the walrus today. Source

I have one on my desk (it is not quite so curved). It is 22 inches in length.