Beluga whales are highly social and acoustically complex cetaceans whose welfare in captivity and in the wild from industrial noise and climate change requires urgent attention.
Belugas in captivity show dorsal skin lesions, stereotypic swim patterns, and shortened lifespans consistent with severe welfare compromise. Their complex vocal and social needs cannot be met in tank environments. Wild belugas face noise pollution from shipping and industrial activity that impairs their ability to communicate and forage. Both captive and wild beluga welfare require active protection.