Hvaldimir - A Beluga WHale Who Needed a Helping Hand

        In May 2019, a lone beluga whale appeared on the northern Norwegian coast wearing a mysterious harness. Initially, the Norwegian fisheries thought it was fishing gear and followed standard protocols to free the whale. They carefully removed the harness, but Hvaldimir didn’t swim away. Instead, he began following boats into harbors, eventually taking up temporary residence in Hammerfest. As videos of the whale spread, it became clear that Hvaldimir was in danger. Curious onlookers approached him, often unknowingly putting him at risk. Recognizing the urgent need for expert intervention, Norwegian Orca Survey stepped in. While we specialize in killer whales, we also take responsibility whenever marine mammals are in distress; especially when there is no other local expertise.

Our team spent several days observing Hvaldimir’s every move in the harbor. It quickly became clear that he was not feeding properly, was seeking human attention, and was in poor body condition. With input from global beluga whale experts and veterinarians experienced with marine mammals in managed care, we developed an emergency care plan. Our goals were simple but vital: restore Hvaldimir’s health and safety, and protect both him and the public. NOS was granted permission to feed Hvaldimir by the Norwegian fisheries, and took responsibility for his care. Together with colleagues, friends, and the local community, we provided round-the-clock care. Slowly, the beluga regained energy, began showing interest in live fish, and started exploring his surroundings again.

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By July 2019, Hvaldimir had left the harbor, beginning a remarkable journey along the Norwegian coastline that lasted until 2024. At first, we worried he might not be able to feed himself, but analyses of his feces soon reassured us: he was thriving. NOS concluded its direct care, though we continued to monitor his journey from a distance, aware that his fascination with people still exposed him to risks.

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Hvaldimir’s story came to an end in the summer of 2024. His life reminds us of the delicate balance between humans and marine wildlife, and the critical role of dedicated organizations like NOS in safeguarding animals when no one else can.

In his
Memory