What are baby beluga whales called?

calves
Beluga whales usually mate when the water is warmer, in March or April. After a gestation of 14 to 15 months, females give birth to babies called calves. Calves are born gray, but will turn white as they mature.

Is Baby beluga a whale?

Baby beluga whales are some of the most astounding whales in the ocean. They are not only shaped much differently, with bulbous, oil-filled heads, but they are also the only whale that can swim backward!

How long is a beluga pregnant?

12 – 14 monthsBeluga whale / Gestation period

Based on animal health team monitoring and beluga whales’ gestation period of 14-15 months, the calf’s due date is estimated for mid-summer of this year. The sex of the calf will not be known until after birth.

How many babies do beluga whales have?

one calf
Birth: Belugas give birth to one calf at a time. Females give birth every 2-4 years.

How long does a baby beluga whale stay with its mother?

Belugas remain near their mothers for three years, sometimes even longer. During this period, mother and calf develop a strong bond, which is essential for the offspring’s survival. The best known maternal care in whales is where the female places the calf close to her side while swimming.

How do belugas give birth?

Calving and Birth A female may give birth to a single calf every two to three years. Twins are rare. Calves are born in bays and estuaries, where the water is relatively warm: about 10° to 15° C (50° to 60° F). Deliveries can either be tail first or head first.

Are beluga whales friendly?

BFFs (beluga friends forever) Beluga whales are extremely friendly and social and form groups of an average of 10 whales, but during their summer migration they can gather in the thousands (like they do in the warmer waters of the Churchill and Seal River estuaries where they feed and give birth).

Do beluga like humans?

Beluga whales make friends, just like humans | BBC Science Focus Magazine.

How old do belugas live?

35 – 50 yearsBeluga whale / Lifespan

What do baby belugas eat?

Beluga calves are dependent upon nursing for the first year, until their teeth emerge. They then supplement their diets with shrimps and small fishes. Most calves nurse for 20 to 24 months. Mothers with calves often form pods separate from males.