Stranded Beluga Whale Calf Rescued by Alaska SeaLife Center
Posted on July 7, 2012
A stranded beluga whale calf was rescued from Bristol Bay on Monday, June 18. The calf was spotted following a large storm. There were no other beluga whales observed near the calf. The calf was estimated to be just two or three days old when it was found.
The rescuers say the calf repeatedly returned to shore after being encouraged to return to the open ocean. It was picked up after rescuers called the Alaska SeaLife Center (ASLC), who received authorization from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to attempt a rescue. The calf received an exam at South Nahnek Airport before being transfered to the ASLC.
The calf is the first beluga whale to ever be housed at the Alaska SeaLife Center. When the 5-foot long calf was brought to the Center, it weighed 50 kilograms (110 pounds). The calf is currently being fed every two hours with a milk matrix created specifically for beluga calves.
Dr. Carrie Goertz, staff veterinarian, says, "The calf is swimming on his own, cooperating with feedings, and breathing regularly, which are all very positive signs. However, there are tremendous hurdles ahead. Because this animal is extremely young, it is at a very high risk of complications."
One of the biggest concerns for the calf's survival is that it has an insufficiently developed immune system. Brett Long, director, Alaska Sealife Center, says they are working with other aquariums to provide supplements the calf needs. Take a look: