Occurrence of Beluga, Delphinapterus leucas, in summer off northeastern Coats Island, Northwest Territories

Abstract

Observations from a site close to Cape Pembroke, Coats Island, Northwest Territories, during the summers of 1984-1998, revealed the occurrence of substantial numbers of Beluga close inshore in years when shore-fast ice cleared out by early July. The frequency of days on which Belugas were observed peaked between 20 June - 5 July, while highest mean numbers occurred on 17-28 June and 7-11 July. Most movements observed were towards the east, raising questions concerning the origin and destination of these animals.