Beluga whale in Ostrobothnia behaves normally despite skin issues, researcher says

A beluga whale spotted in Finland’s Ostrobothnia region is acting normally despite visible skin problems caused by freshwater exposure, according to marine mammal expert Olli Loisa from Turku University of Applied Sciences, who assessed the animal over the weekend.

Loisa, who observed the beluga in the Kyronjoki river area, reported that its behaviour remained typical—actively hunting and diving for extended periods. While the whale’s skin condition appears to have worsened slightly, he does not currently support a rescue operation, warning that capture and relocation could be fatal.

“The skin issues stem from prolonged time in freshwater,” Loisa explained. Earlier discussions had considered intervention to move the whale from the river system, but he now advises continued monitoring instead.

The beluga, classified as critically endangered with only around 500 individuals in the Baltic Sea, has lingered near the Kyronjoki estuary and Vassorinlahti bay. Loisa attributed its presence to abundant spring fish stocks but hopes the whale will soon return to saltwater to aid its recovery.

Authorities previously urged local fishers to avoid net fishing in the area to prevent accidental entanglement. Loisa, who encountered his first beluga in Finland after studying hundreds abroad, called the sighting a milestone but stressed the importance of minimizing human disturbance.

Residents are encouraged to report observations and photos—without approaching the animal.