Beluga May 2026

The name "beluga" stems from the Russian word белуха ( belukha ), which translates to "white" or "the white one". This is a literal description of the adults, though calves are actually born dark gray and only attain their characteristic white hue as they reach maturity.

The Beluga Whale: Nature’s "Sea Canary" of the Arctic The beluga whale ( Delphinapterus leucas ), often simply called the "beluga," is one of the most recognizable and charismatic inhabitants of the Arctic and sub-Arctic waters. Distinguished by its striking white color and bulbous forehead, the beluga is a member of the Monodontidae family—sharing this classification only with the narwhal. Known as the "sea canary" due to its high-pitched chirps and whistles, this social cetacean serves as a vital sentinel species for the health of the rapidly changing northern ecosystems. Etymology and Physical Characteristics beluga

Belugas have a circumpolar distribution, with major populations found in the waters of: The name "beluga" stems from the Russian word

Stranded beluga (Delphinapterus leucas) calf response and care Distinguished by its striking white color and bulbous