A beluga is a type of cetacean, specifically a species of whale. Belugas are distinctive for their white color and rounded foreheads, often referred to as "melon." They belong to the family Monodontidae, which also includes narwhals. Belugas are social animals that typically live in pods and are known for their vocalizations, earning them the nickname "canaries of the sea." They inhabit Arctic and sub-Arctic waters, adapting well to the cold environments. Belugas primarily feed on fish, crustaceans, and other marine life and are noted for their ability to maneuver easily in icy waters.