At Chicago's renowned Shedd Aquarium, excitement is palpable as visitors await the grand introduction of its newest resident—a captivating beluga calf. Born to 35-year-old Naya in July 2024, this adorable creature is the first beluga birth at Shedd in four years, marking a significant event for the aquarium's staff and visitors alike.
Charlie Jacobsma, Shedd's Director of Animal Behavior and Training, demonstrates a heartwarming connection with the calf as he coos lovingly, comparing the young beluga's babbling to a toddler learning to speak. He’s just constantly growing and developing, Jacobsma shared, emphasizing the calf's natural curiosity and intelligence.
The calf has yet to grow its teeth, which makes daily fishing sessions less about devouring prey and more about exploration. Jacobsma playfully reinforces the calf's development by providing herrings as part of its diet. The team's nurturing approach can be seen in every interaction, promoting healthy growth and adaptation.
This birth is history in the making, as Shedd has witnessed 15 beluga births since 1991. The dedicated aquarium staff employed an all-hands-on-deck strategy to ensure Naya's birthing process was seamless. Another female beluga, Bella, lent a helping fin, guiding the newborn to the surface before mother Naya took over her nurturing role.
The young beluga is now being gradually integrated into the Shedd's pod of eight, and the aquarium community is actively participating in naming him. This highlights the inclusive atmosphere that Shedd Aquarium fosters, creating a bond between its inhabitants and supporters.
Belugas typically thrive in the arctic and sub-arctic seas, where research can be challenging. Thus, aquariums like Shedd offer invaluable insights into their breeding and life cycles. Gia Griffins, a Shedd spokesperson, noted that belugas under human care often live beyond thirty years, reaching impressive lengths of up to 14 feet and weights exceeding 2,000 pounds.
Shedd's commitment to excellence is further reflected as the animals are trained to engage in their healthcare routines. Monitoring pregnancies via ultrasounds allows for detailed study and better care strategies.
An amusing aspect of Shedd's belugas is their penchant for 'tongue tickles.' Jacobsma joyously recalls the surprising interaction where belugas welcome such affection, similar to petting a dog or a cat. It's experiences like these that endear the belugas to both staff and visitors, adding an interactive and educational facet to their presence at Shedd.
As anticipation builds for the calf's formal name reveal, the beluga's journey signifies a heartwarming chapter in Shedd's ongoing mission to blend conservation efforts with public engagement, fostering knowledge and appreciation for these majestic creatures.
