Online report methodology | Arctic blue corridors

The Arctic blue corridors database was created by the WWF Global Arctic Programme. We collated and mapped publicly available spatial and temporal information on the migration routes of the three whale species endemic to the Arctic region: narwhal (Monodon monoceros), bowhead whale (Balaena mysticetus), and beluga whale (Delphinapterus leucas).

Tracking whale migrations under harsh Arctic conditions is logistically and technologically challenging, labour-intensive and costly. While many Arctic coastal Indigenous communities have observed whale migrations for millennia and scientific research is ongoing, there is much we still do not know about Arctic whales’ migratory behaviour. The maps in this database are a first look at Arctic whales’ migratory behaviour, both where their blue corridors are situated and when the corridors are being used by the whales. Together with other information sources, this database can help identify priority areas for research, management and conservation.

Methodology report (2,8MB)