A review of the ecology and status of white whales (Delphinapterus leucas) in Svalbard, Norway

The Norwegian Polar Institute initiated a research programme on white whales in 1995 to gather biological information relevant for the species’ management; results of which are reviewed herein. Satellite tracking from two periods (1995–2001 and 2013–16), between sea ice diminished markedly, showed that waters off archipelago Svalbard spent most their time foraging close tidewater glaciers. Transits glaciers typically followed coastline, with moving rapidly one glacier another. During later period, some out fjords, suggesting they might be targeting prey Atlantic Water masses now prevail Svalbard’s west-coast fjords. Most dives were extremely shallow (13 ± 26 m; maximum 350 m) short duration (97 123 s; 31.4 min). Fatty-acid analyses indicated polar cod (Boreogadus saida) was main during first sampling period. An aerial survey 2018 estimated population numbered 549 (CI: 436–723) animals. genetically separate populations west Greenland White Sea. Predation by killer appears have influenced whale behaviour Svalbard; often silent, despite having normal vocal repertoire species coastal movements take place very water. This has high contaminant levels. Climate change poses threat this small whales.