White whale | Facts & Information

# White whale | Facts & Information

White whale | Discover Fascinating Facts and Information About White whale

The white whale or beluga (Delphinapterus leucas) is a species of whale widespread in the Arctic Ocean and the seas. In the past it was hunted for fat, skin and meat.

White whale

The White Whale (Delphinapterus leucas) is a fascinating marine mammal also known as the beluga. This species of whale is notable for its immaculate white fur and its ability to produce various sounds and vocalizations. Throughout time, the white whale has sparked astonishment and curiosity in humans due to its distinctive appearance and unique behavior.

The white whale lives in the cold waters of the Arctic and Subarctic, including coastal regions of the Atlantic Ocean, as well as the Bering Sea and the Chukotka Sea. In these regions, small social communities or groups are formed, primarily consisting of family members. They are also known for their significant migrations in search of food.

A unique characteristic of the white whale is its adaptation to its environment. By venturing into the icy waters of the Arctic, its white fur allows it to easily camouflage and protect itself from predators. This is why it is known as the "white whale." Additionally, its thick layer of blubber under its skin acts as essential insulation against the extreme cold of the water.

This species of whale is also distinguished by its rounded head shape, without a noticeable snout. Instead of a typical mouth, the white whale has a flexible lip joint, which allows for varied movements and easy feeding. Their diet mainly consists of fish, squid, and crustaceans. To capture their food, they use a combination of echolocation (a sound-based system emitted and received) and water ruffling to create disturbances and attract prey to them.

One of the most interesting characteristics of the white whale is its powerful and melodic vocal ability. They produce astonishing, varied, and complex sounds that enable them to communicate with each other and coordinate their activities, feeding, and movements. These vocalizations can range from high-pitched whistles to deep sounds and can be heard over considerable distances.

Research has shown that white whales even have a distinct language within their social group, helping them express their emotions and intentions. These vocalizations are crucial for group communication and cohesion. They can also be used as a means of navigation, helping them find their way through the labyrinth of icy waters.

The white whale is considered a social and intelligent whale species. This intelligence is manifested in their ability to understand complex problems and solve behavioral tasks. They are also known for their playfulness and friendly interactions with other marine animals, including humans.

However, the white whale is currently facing various threats and challenges. Pollution and excessive exploitation of resources in their natural environment have significantly impacted white whale populations. Climate change and the melting of ice in Arctic regions also affect their habitat and food sources.

Throughout centuries, the white whale has fascinated humans with its grace and unusual behavior. It reminds us that we must protect and save these incredible species and the fragility of the marine ecosystems they inhabit. The white whale represents a symbol of the diversity and natural beauty of our world, which must be defended and preserved for future generations.

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Origin

The white whale lives in Arctic and sub-Arctic waters along the coasts of Canada, Alaska, Greenland, Norway and Russia. About 500 specimens are found in the waters of the Saint Lawrence River.

The habitat of Beluga whales includes canals, bays and the surface layer of the Arctic seas, which is warmed by the sun. during the summer they can also be found at river mouths, where they feed, socialise and breed. These waters usually have 8o-10oC.

White whale food

It feeds on fish, cephalopods and crustaceans. It lives in groups numbering 5-10 individuals.

An adult consumes about 25 kg of food a day – perhaps even more.

Features white whale

The name "white whale" comes from the color it acquires at the age of 4-5 years, when the beluga becomes white or cream. Pups are dark blue or gray at birth. The anterior part of the head is rounded, and the mouth is provided with teeth. It has no dorsal fins.

The White Whale measures from three to five meters long and has an average weight of 1.6 tons. 50% of their weight is fat, significantly more than in non-Arctic whales, whose body is only 20% fat.

The layer is 10 centimeters thick. Males are slightly larger than females. They have an average weight of 1350 kilograms, and males 1500 kilograms.

She was hunted for fat, skin and flesh. The natural enemies are killer whales and polar bears – which especially attack Cubs. Man has hunted the white whale for hundreds of years, but today – supposedly – it is still hunted by only a few Arctic tribes.

Scientists say the area of the Solovetsky Islands, in the White Sea, where white whales gather every year, is the only place in the world where they can be observed from a very short distance to see their backs glow in the dark waters when they play in small groups.

Breeding white whale

The life span of females is 32 years, and of males about 40 years.

Belugas tend to" collegialize " from late February to early April.

Gestation lasts 14-15 months and the female gives birth to a single cub (cases of twins are very-very rare); in the first 10 seconds of life the cub swims to the surface, helped by the mother, for its first breath. It is 4-5 meters long and 45-64 kg in weight.

Puppies are breastfed until about 12-24 months of age. The bond between mother and baby is very strong.

In the first year of life the skin color varies from blue to red-brown, in the second year of life to gray-blue until the age of 6 years when melanin gradually disappears and the skin becomes white or cream. They reach maturity around 7-9 years.

#Photo Gallery of White Whale