Belugas are very vocal, emitting chirps, squeaks and clicking noises, which explains their nickname of sea canaries.

Subspecies
None.

Life span
Unknown.

Statistics
Body length: 3-5m, Weight: 0.4-1.5 tonnes. Males are larger than the females.

Physical description
Belugas are also called white whales due to their pale coloration. Calves are born grey, and become paler as they age. They have a large melon and short beak. It is not uncommon for belugas to be covered in scars. These are usually caused by polar bears, which attack the whales if they become trapped in pack ice.

Unlike most other cetaceans, they have the ability to nod and shake their heads from side to side.

Distribution
Belugas are mostly found in the Arctic ocean and some adjoining seas.

Diet
Belugas eat a wide variety of prey such as fish, octopus, squid, crabs and snails.

Behaviour
Typically, a single large male will lead a group of 5-20 individuals although during migration and periods of high food abundance, groups of 10,000 belugas have been reported.

Conservation status
Belugas are listed as Vulnerable by the 2000 IUCN Red List.