The
beluga or white whale is a native of the cold waters of northern latitudes. Once
only known in the wild to the hardy residents of the far north, this striking
animal is now familiar to many people as a charismatic exhibit in some of the
world's aquariums. It is also still hunted by some Inuit as part of their
culture.
'Beluga Whales' explores what is known about this unique creature's evolution, distribution and migration as well as its life cycle and social structure. It examines the human impacts of hunting and water pollution on the animal and looks at the practical and moral issues raised by keeping this small whale in captivity.