What makes the Beluga Whale unique?
These medium-sized sea mammals have a unique shape and physiology that sets them apart from their closest relatives. Its vertebrae are not fused together like most cetacean, which means that they can move their heads laterally. The beluga is also one of the few whales that can swim backwards.
One of the species' most distinct features is its dome-shaped head. Not only does this bulbous structure give the beluga a very distinct look, it can also be reshaped when they inhale or exhale. The evolutionary process of the beluga also phased out the species' need for a dorsal fin. The reason for this is unknown, but scientists believe it has something to do with survival in arctic climates.
Much like dolphins, the whales are known to be rather playful. Some of their behaviors can be misconstrued as aggressive activities. For example, captive beluga whales have a tendency to spray water at their handlers. This can knock a person down, but the whale is not trying to hurt or frighten the target.
There is so much more that sets the beluga apart from other aquatic mammals. If you would like to get an up-close look at these friendly creatures, there is no better place to go than Churchill, Manitoba. The late summer migration period offers a perfect opportunity to see massive communities of belugas in their natural habitat.
