Scientific name: Delphinapterus leucas
Conservation Status: Near Threatened
Lifespan: up to 70 years
Mass: 1600 kg
Length: 5.5 m
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.
Beluga Whales can be found in Alaska, Northern Canada, Western Greenland and Russia. They keep to Arctic and Sub-Arctic waters.
Beluga Whales are considered Near Threatened by the IUCN Red List. Read more about whale threats.