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Beluga Whale

Delphinapterus leucas

Beluga whales are white whales with rounded heads. They are known for their chirping and whistling sounds.

Habitat: Cold Arctic and sub-Arctic seas.

Appearance

The Beluga Whale is a medium-sized cetacean with a distinct creamy white body and a rounded, bulbous forehead called a 'melon'. Unlike most whales, it lacks a dorsal fin and has a very flexible neck. Young belugas are born dark grey.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassMammaliaOrderCetaceaFamilyMonodontidaeGenusDelphinapterus
Beluga Whale
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Beluga Whale

Category

Mammals

Rarity

Rare

Danger

3/5 · Moderate

Snaps

1

Interesting facts

Belugas shed their entire outer skin layer each summer, rubbing on rocks to help it peel off!

Belugas use their flexible lips to suck up prey like a vacuum cleaner!

Their scientific name, Delphinapterus leucas, means 'white dolphin without a fin.'

They are born dark grey and gradually turn pure white as they get older!

Special abilities

Ability

Sound Seeker

Beluga Whales can use echolocation by emitting clicks and whistles to find food and navigate in murky Arctic waters.

Ability

Flexible Navigator

Beluga Whales have a uniquely flexible neck that helps them turn their head to look around for prey and predators.

Ability

Melon Molder

Beluga Whales can change the shape of their rounded forehead (melon) to focus sounds for super-accurate echolocation.

Measurements & details

Length
350-550 cm
Weight
1000-1500 kg
Lifespan
35-60 years
Top Speed
22 km/h
Litter Size
1
Gestation
425-455 days

Diet & Feeding

These marine mammals enjoy eating fish, squid, and crustaceans from the cold ocean floor.

Primary Foods

  • Cod
  • Halibut
  • Shrimp
  • Squid
  • Crab

Foraging Method

  • Foraging

Ecological connections

Traits

Also known as

Sea CanaryWhite Whale

Collections

Safety

Danger

3/5 · Moderate

Avoid close contact — they are large wild animals.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is Beluga Whale?

350-550 cm

How much does Beluga Whale weigh?

1000-1500 kg

How long does Beluga Whale live?

35-60 years

How fast can Beluga Whale move?

22 km/h

What does Beluga Whale eat?

These marine mammals enjoy eating fish, squid, and crustaceans from the cold ocean floor.

Where is Beluga Whale usually found?

Cold Arctic and sub-Arctic seas.

How does Beluga Whale hunt?

Foraging

How many babies does Beluga Whale usually have?

1

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