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Threatened Species

Beluga Whale

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The Beluga Whale is a toothed whale that can be found in Canada’s Arctic, Hudson Bay and St. Lawrence estuary.

Beluga whales, sometimes known as sea canaries, have an astonishingly diverse vocal repertoire. Their biosonar system is one of the most advanced in nature and is employed for echolocation during foraging and navigation.

Habitat & Range

Beluga whales are found as far north as 82°N in the Arctic, 60°N in the Pacific sub-Arctic (Alaska), and 47°N in the St. Lawrence Estuary. Seven of the 22 recently identified populations spend at least part of the year in Canadian waters.

Diet

Beluga whales feed on small fish and crustaceans. Their diet includes Arctic cod, turbot, Arctic char, capelin, and sand lance. They also feed on shrimp, squid, mollusks, and marine worms.

Scientific Name

Delphinapterus leucas

Conservation Status

Within Canada, COSEWIC has individually evaluated the country's seven beluga whale populations. The St. Lawrence Estuary group, for example, is classified as endangered, indicating a high risk of extinction. Meanwhile, populations located in the more remote northern regions have not been identified as facing immediate threats​​​​​​.

COSEWIC Status: Threatened, Endangered or Special Concern
SARA Status: Threatened

Size

Adult Belugas typically measure between 2.6 to 4.5 meters in length and can weigh up to 1,900 kilograms. Females are generally smaller than males.

Population

The exact numbers in Newfoundland and Labrador are unclear due to the migratory nature of these whales, but genetics tests link them to several populations, indicating their wide-ranging movement

Beluga Whales in Newfoundland & Labrador

Beluga Whales, often called the “canaries of the sea” due to their wide range of vocalizations, hold a prominent place in the cultural heritage and traditions of Indigenous communities across the Arctic, including those in Newfoundland and Labrador. These communities have long shared a relationship with belugas, relying on them for sustenance, tools, and clothing. This deep-rooted connection extends beyond practicality, entering the realm of spiritual and cultural significance, with belugas featuring in folklore, songs, and stories that pass through generations. The presence and behaviors of belugas often carry symbolic meanings and are integrated into cultural rituals and traditions.

Ecologically, the Beluga Whale plays a crucial role in the marine ecosystems of the North Atlantic, including the waters around Newfoundland and Labrador. As a top predator, belugas maintain the balance of marine life populations by preying on a variety of fish and invertebrates. This predation helps to control the populations of prey species, ensuring a healthy and balanced ecosystem. Furthermore, their presence in different marine habitats, from deep offshore waters to shallow coastal estuaries, highlights the diversity and health of marine environments in the region.

In the waters near Newfoundland and Labrador, beluga whales have been spotted. These sightings have mostly been lone animals (often juveniles), but there have also occasionally been groups of hundreds. Although none have been from the nearby Gulf of St. Lawrence population to date, genetic testing for some of these beluga whales has revealed that they are members of several populations.

THREATS

When they are close to ice and killer whales, beluga whales are more susceptible to polar bear predation. Because they frequently return to the same estuaries, they are exposed to human disturbance, hunting, and pollution from agricultural and industrial runoff. Along with rising vessel traffic, beluga whales face other threats from commercial fisheries such as noise and competition for food.

CURRENT PROTECTIONS

Beluga Whales are protected under various regulations, including the federal Marine Mammal Regulations pursuant to the Fisheries Act. Populations like the St. Lawrence River Beluga are listed as Threatened under the Species at Risk Act (SARA), affording them additional protections. Recovery strategies and action plans are required for species listed under SARA to enhance their protection and conservation​​.

The diverse statuses and broad habitat range of Beluga Whales highlight the importance of tailored conservation efforts to safeguard these distinct populations in Canadian waters, including those that may visit Newfoundland and Labrador.

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© Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society – Newfoundland and Labrador Chapter