DL0242

We first encountered DL0242 in 1992. He was still gray at the time, but of considerable size. He turned white around 1997. Belugas fade from gray to white in colour between the ages of 12 and 16. DL0242 would therefore have been born around 1981.

His large size and habits suggest that DL0242 is a male. Like other adult bulls of the population, he spends most of his time in herds composed essentially of males. Three networks of males are known: two of these navigate the Saguenay Fjord and the head of the Laurentian Channel, while the third one, the “Downstream Boys”, also uses the head of the Channel as well as the downriver portion of the Estuary, but avoids the Saguenay.

Within these male networks, adult bulls form stable groups of companions. These associations, which are established gradually, may play a role in belugas’ reproductive lives.

DL0242 and his most regular companions – Stanley, Moby Dick and DL0238 – have rarely been observed in the Saguenay River. They probably belong to the “Downstream Boys”.

How DL0242’s story unfolds will teach us volumes on the evolution of belugas’ social lives. By better understanding how belugas live, we will better be able to protect them.

Adopt DL0242

Adopting a beluga costs $5000 per year. Two approaches allow you to contribute in the way that suits you best : Adopt your beluga in your own name or as a group.

Whether you wish to adopt a beluga in your name or that of your business or launch a campaign for a joint adoption, contact our team by email or by phone at 418-235-4701. Our team will provide you with all the tools to carry out your campaign online and promote it in your networks.