Beluga Whales Spotted on Somerset Island at Cunningham Inlet (00020363)

Description: Beluga Whale/Delphinapterus leucas Beluga whales have arrived at Cunningham Inlet on Somerset Island. The Cunningham Inlet is one of the main migratory routes for Beluga whales, where thousands of them gather every July and August. An awe-inspiring sight, especially when viewed from above. Beluga whales, also known as white whales, can grow up to six meters in length and weigh up to 1,000 kilograms. They have a distinctive blue-white to creamy-white coloration and no dorsal fin. The color of young whales can range from brown to gray to blue. Due to their diverse acoustic repertoire, Beluga whales were once called the “canaries of the sea” by sailors and whalers. Their sounds were even audible through the hulls of ships. Nowadays, more whales and dolphins die as bycatch in fishing nets than ever before through commercial whaling.

Location: Northwest Territories, Somerset Island, Canada

Date of Capture: 20.07.1996