Discover whales, dolphins and more in Orange County, CA

Beluga whales are smaller-sized whales that are very social and inhabit Arctic and sub-Arctic waters. They are rarely reported outside of this range. However, in October 2021, a lone beluga appeared in the waters of the Pacific Northwest (PNW) and remained in the area for approximately a month. This presentation will describe the biology and ecology of whales; the case of the lone PNW whale; and current  threats and challenges that face wild populations of beluga.  

Stephanie Norman is a wildlife veterinarian and epidemiologist in the aquatic animal health field, spanning invertebrates to top-level predators. Her clinical and field research interests include understanding and interpreting various aspects of ocean health, including pathogen transmission, as well as those of concern to human health. Her research and clinical efforts help inform efforts to mitigate human impact on aquatic species and raise awareness of ocean health and the connection to that of humans.