Beluga Facts
BELUGA FACTS
Scientific name: Delphinapterus leucas
Conservation Status: Near Threatened
Lifespan: up to 70 years
Mass: 1600 kg
Length: 5.5 m
Beluga whales are Arctic and sub-Arctic cetaceans, and the only members that belong to the genus Delphinapterus. 
More Beluga Facts:
Belugas have completely adapted to Arctic life and can be spotted by their pure white colouring, uniquely shaped head, and lack of dorsal fin. The beluga’s protruding head is the housing for an organ called the “melon” which modulates their vocals and acts like a sound lens.
Quirky Beluga Facts & Tidbits
- Belugas are very vocal and have a very high-pitched voice. They are often called “Sea Canaries.”
- Belugas are slow swimmers but can dive to depths of up to 700 metres!
- Belugas have a diet of cod, halibut, shrimp, salmon and others depending on their location
Distribution
Beluga Whales can be found in Alaska, Northern Canada, Western Greenland and Russia. They keep to Arctic and Sub-Arctic waters.
Status of the Beluga Whale
Beluga Whales are considered Near Threatened by the IUCN Red List. Read more about whale threats.
