Bowhead (Arviq)

An estimated 20,000 bowhead whales are currently spread across three distinct geographic regions, with 90% of these summering in Canadian waters. Bowhead populations are recovering steadily after being severely overhunted by European whalers until the early 20th century. These whales can weigh up to 100 tonnes, feeding primarily on small zooplankton in key summering areas, and can live over 200 years. Bowheads can break ice at least 20 cm thick with their powerful skulls.

###Importance Whales are close to the top of the food chain and important indicators of the overall health of the marine environment. Some Inuit communities rely on bowhead harvests for food and continuing cultural traditions.

###Potential impact of an oil spill Likely risks include impaired body functions and senses due to oil accumulation around eyes and on hairs at opening of the blow hole. Bohweads may avoid key feeding areas and food sources when contaminated by oil spills.

Sources

• Distribution of endemic cetaceans in relation to hydrocarbon development and commercial shipping in a warming Arctic. Marine Policy. Reeves et al. 2014; Burns, JJ, Montague, JJ, & Cowles CJ. (Eds.), 1993. The Bowhead Whale. Special Publn. No. 2: The Society for Marine Mammalogy. Pp. 787.
• WWF-Canada
• MAP DATA: Audubon - Alaska

Adapted from: Selected records from Fisheries and Oceans Canada (Oceans Program), Marine Species Distribution and Marine Protected Areas Database.

This product has been produced by the Fisheries and Oceans Canada (Oceans Program) for use in marine planning initiatives. Reproduced with permission of Fisheries and Oceans Canada (Oceans Program).