Postmortem pathology investigation of the wounds from invasive tagging in belugas ( <i>Delphinapterus leucas</i> ) from Cook Inlet and Bristol Bay, Alaska

Wildlife researchers need to understand the effects of biotelemetry tags in order better weigh benefits versus risks. We describe tag-site healing and pathology three beluga whales, Delphinapterus leucas, found dead Alaska. The were secured with two or nylon rods that pierced dorsal ridge, one also had a LIMPET tag. tag wounds Cook Inlet featured normal response minimal inflammation ~12 years posttagging. Photo-ID studies another demonstrated degeneration over several years. It died ~12.8 posttagging bronchopneumonia septicemia due Staphylococcus aureus infected wound. A Bristol Bay 4 months Although it may have been predated by killer whale attack, Orcinus orca, site was inflamed Streptococcus uberis which spread an abscessed lymph node. To reduce risk infection, should adopt strict sterilization protocols for all implanted parts continue research into improved tagging methods. Clinical behavioral assessment potential preexisting conditions before deployment, as well posttag monitoring, could help tag-associated mortality identify immediate impacts mortality.