Why Do Beluga Whales Swim Upside Down
Beluga whales swim upside down to improve their view of prey on the seafloor. This inverted posture helps them spot and target bottom-dwelling fish and invertebrates more effectively.
Feeding and Sensory Benefits
Swimming upside down may help belugas use their flexible necks and wide mouths to scan the seabed. It can also position their echolocation clicks to better detect hidden prey in murky or shallow water.
Other Possible Reasons
Belugas sometimes swim inverted during play, social interactions, or while investigating objects. In aquarium settings, this behavior can appear more often when belugas are curious or exploring their environment.
For more on beluga behavior and habitat, see the National Geographic beluga whale profile.
