The beluga, or white whale, is one of the smallest species of whale. Their distinctive color and prominent foreheads make them easily identifiable.
Belugas generally live together in small groups known as pods. They are social animals and vocal communicators using a diversified language of clicks, whistles, and clangs. Belugas can also copy a variety of other sounds. Unlike most other whales, the beluga has a very flexible neck that enables it to nod and turn its head in all directions.
These whales are common in the Arctic Ocean’s coastal waters, though they are found in subarctic waters as well. Arctic belugas migrate southward in large herds when the sea freezes over.
- Mass: 1,400 kg (Adult)
- Lifespan: 35 – 50 years
- Scientific name: Delphinapterus leucas
- Order: Artiodactyla
- Family: Monodontidae
- Phylum: Chordata
- Kingdom: Animalia