Scientific Research

Click photo to enlarge.

Right Left

Cunningham Inlet is unique for the number of beluga whales that congregate in the inlet every summer. 

During the 1990s the whales of Cunningham Inlet were studied extensively by researchers Tom Smith, David St Aubin and others. The last scientist left in 1999.

The climate has drastically changed over the last decade. Temperatures are warmer, including water temperatures, and new birds and insects are coming to Somerset Island. Now there are winters when no ice forms on the Northwest Passage on Somerset island. Years ago, the ice would freeze 2 meters thick. We don’t know how this affects the whale population. Climate change has also led to increased ship and aircraft traffic in the area, which in turn has led to more people attempting to approach the whales in a negative manner.

The number of whales that visit the inlet is unknown. We don’t know if the population is stable. We have noticed whales with increased marks of human interaction such as a whale with a rubber inner tube around its body, a whale with a propeller wound and whales with significant old injuries (gun shots?). We feel that the whale population needs to be monitored.

Arctic Watch has partnered with the Mystic Aquarium in Mystic, Connecticut. Mystic Aquarium, has one of the largest beluga whale habitats in the United States where guests can experience beluga whales firsthand and learn about their natural history, current conservation status and the challenges facing them today. Moreover, the Aquarium’s mission is research and education. Beginning July 20th - 27th 2012 (Mystic Week), scientists from Mystic will start studying the beluga whales in Cunningham Inlet. The researchers will stay at Arctic Watch during the summer and conduct their work. They will be assisted by interested guests and participants in the Youth Program. The resident scientist will also be a resource for visitors to Arctic Watch. 

Come to Arctic Watch to meet the whales up close.