“Several dead beluga whales washed ashore recently in Alaska after dozens were temporarily stranded on mud flats during low tide.”

“Arctic waters are renowned for such marine mammals as bowhead and beluga whales and ringed, spotted and bearded seals.”

“The blue whale, the beluga and the walrus all have this protective layer of fat which serves as insulation.”

“Inuit have hunted belugas whale for centuries, and follow their own principle of conservation, without government regulation.”

“As are many whale populations, belugas in this area are declining, despite regulations to protect them.”

“White whales, also known as belugas, live primarily in the Arctic Ocean and adjoining seas.”