Observations of white whales, Delphinapterus leucas, in waters off Newfoundland and Labrador and the Gulf of St. Lawrence, 1979-1991

Thirty-seven sightings, strandings and gear entrapments of White Whales (Delphinapterus leucas) made in Newfoundland and Labrador waters and the lower Gulf of St. Lawrence from 1979 to 1991 are reported. Most of these incidents occurred in the summer months with a mean rate of 2.6 records per year. Fourteen (38%) of the observed animals were dead when discovered; fates of the remaining animals were not recorded. Toxicological analysis of one animal indicates that it was from anArctic or Subarctic population. The stock affinities of the other animals were uncertain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]