Research Document - 2008/085
Information Relevant to the Identification of Critical Habitat for Cumberland Sound Belugas (Delphinapterus leucas)
By P. Richard and D.B. Stewart
Abstract
In spring of 2004, the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC) designated belugas in Cumberland Sound as Threatened. In anticipation of possible listing under the Species at Risk Act (SARA), a recovery strategy is being written. The strategy must identify critical habitat to the extent possible based on the best information available or a schedule of studies that, when completed, would allow critical habitat to be identified. This report documents the information available on habitat use derived from aerial surveys, tracking data, local knowledge and published literature. It offers an understanding of the seasonal distribution of Cumberland Sound belugas, and the little that is known of the physiographic environment, the prey and predators in the areas they frequent. The research necessary to more clearly establish the biological functions of habitats used by this population of belugas are also described.
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