Making sure
sea canaries
continue to sing

Belugas, also known as sea canaries for their high-pitched squeaks, squeals, clucks and whistles, are one of more than 10 Arctic whale species. Belugas live in the cold waters of the Arctic Ocean during the winter months and are amazingly adapted to sea ice.

Some belugas live at the edge of the ice pack in winter months while others live under the ice using echolocation to find open patches of water to breathe. In the summer months, many belugas move to warmer waters and congregate in river estuaries where human-caused pollution is significant. Belugas are also affected by shipping vessel traffic, noise from activities such as seismic testing, declines in their prey and human-induced habitat changes.

Learn more about belugas and marine species:

Beluga Communication Research – Vancouver Aquarium

Vancouver Aquarium Aqua Facts

Hinterland Who’s Who Beluga Facts

Beluga Cam – Vancouver Aquarium