The beluga whale (Delphinapterus leucas) is one of the most well-known cetacean species, found in Arctic and sub-Arctic oceans. This pure white whale is one of the two species of the family Monodontidae, with the other being the narwhal. Belugas have a varied diet depending on their location and the time of year, eating fish, crustaceans, and marine invertebrates. Belugas are sometimes preyed upon by polar bears and killer whales. They are highly social and live in pods, and sometimes gather in massive groups. They are considered one of the most vocal cetacean species, and are one of the few cetacean species capable of swimming backwards. The species is listed as Near Threatened, though some individual populations are at greater risk.
Let’s take a trip
The King and his Queen
Isle of Man Purple Heather Bloom Mikael Buck
Antelope Island State Park, Utah by Trent Davis