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Recent aerial surveys estimated the Cook Inlet population between 290 and 386 individuals, a slight increase from previous counts.

Key challenges include noise pollution , habitat degradation, and toxic dumping, especially in industrial areas like Cook Inlet. Defending Cook Inlet Belugas - ArcGIS StoryMaps 900x900 Beluga">

Projects like Beluga Bits allow volunteers to help identify individual whales through underwater photography. Recent aerial surveys estimated the Cook Inlet population

Known as "canaries of the sea," belugas use complex sounds for navigation and social bonding. and toxic dumping

Most belugas inhabit Arctic waters, but they can be found as far south as the Gulf of St. Lawrence . Conservation & Research Efforts

This critically endangered population has seen a nearly 79% decline since 1979.