FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                                                                                                                      JUNE 10, 2008

PREGNANT BELUGA WHALE NOW IN LABOUR AT VANCOUVER AQUARIUM

Vancouver, BC – The Vancouver Aquarium is excited to announce that Qila (pronounced: Kee-lah), our 12 year old, pregnant female beluga whale is in labour.

On June 5, Qila’s caregivers reviewed blood sample test results and determined her progesterone levels were consistent with the early stages of labour.  Now, that process has begun. The birthing process may take 2-4 hours once the calf is visible.

In preparation for Qila’s labour, two belugas (Imaq and Kavna) were relocated on June 5 from the Arctic Canada habitat to a behind the scenes research pool.  This relocation was performed in order to allow Qila maximum space to give birth.  Qila remains in the Aquarium’s

Arctic Canada habitat with her mother, Aurora, who is 21 years old.

Aurora arrived at the Vancouver Aquarium in 1990 and gave birth to Qila in 1995. Qila was the first beluga whale to be conceived and born in a Canadian aquarium.  Qila has been pregnant for 15 months and is a first time mother.

“There is always a risk a problem could occur during the birthing process as is commonly encountered in the wild,” said Dr. Martin Haulena, Staff Veterinarian, Vancouver Aquarium. “Qila’s very special to all of us at the Vancouver Aquarium

and has a very experienced team available to assist if required.”

FAQ for Qila’s pregnancy is available under separate cover.

• An updated media release shall follow upon the delivery of Qila’s calf.
• Interviews w/ Aquarium staff are possible during labour & following birth.
• HD B-roll and stills will be made available upon request.

SPECIAL NOTE TO MEDIA: You are invited to join us to document this special event.  Please read separate document titled: Media procedure to cover beluga birth

The Vancouver Aquarium is a self-supporting, non-profit association dedicated to effecting the conservation of aquatic life through display and interpretation, conservation practices, education, research, and direct action. 

Please visit www.vanaqua.org to learn more about the Vancouver Aquarium.

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Media Contacts:

Kent Hurl                                                                                                                                                           Dave Calder
Public Relations                                                                                                                                               VP, Marketing & Communications

Office: 604.659.3752                                                                                                             Office: 604.659.3438

Cell: 604.230.4673                                                                                                                dave.calder@vanaqua.org

kent.hurl@vanaqua.org