Two Beluga Whales Are Rescued From Performing As Show Animals In China, And Their Smiles Say It All

She said there are more than 300 belugas in captivity around the world. Some belugas are in cramped and unsuitable conditions, Padgett added. And if what we can learn here from Little White and Little Grey can help improve welfare for other animals … that's really the point. Padgett highlighted that moving two belugas was no easy task. They each weigh a little more than a ton (2,000 pounds) and consume around 110 pounds of fish per day between them. The operation required specially designed equipment, veterinarians, and a whole lot of water and ice to keep them hosed down.