Virgule
Beluga
Adopted by AMEUS, Université de Sherbrooke
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ID number
DL0087
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Sex
Male
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Year of birth
Before 1970
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Known Since
1986
Distinctive traits
Virgule can be recognized at first glance by his large scar stretching from the dorsal crest down both flanks. On the right flank, in front of the crest, is another circular scar.
Life history
When we first met Virgule in 1986, he was immaculately white. He would therefore have been born before 1970.
Virgule’s sex was confirmed by biopsy : he is male. He would be part of one of the two networks of males that frequent the Saguenay Fjord and its mouth.
Even without genetic analysis, when we have several data on an individual, it is possible to presume its sex. Adult belugas are highly sex-segregated in summer. Males and females show clearly marked preferences, both in their associations and in the areas they frequent.
Observations history in the Estuary
Years in which the animal was not observed Years in which the animal was observed
Latest news
We found ourselves off Les Escoumins, where we spotted a herd of around 20 individuals, both adults and juveniles. Despite considerable waves in the area, we recognize Virgule. He’s swimming with 3 adult male belugas. Conditions are getting very difficult, and we have to leave the herd.
Virgule was last seen over a decade ago. Is he dead? Has he remained invisible to the eye of the researcher all this time? One thing’s for sure, his story remains a valuable source of information that helps us to better understand this fragile population.
Sponsor
AMEUS, Université de Sherbrooke adopted Virgule (1990).