Whales to make epic journey from China to world's first sanctuary (5)

A trainer from Chengfeng Ocean World in Shanghai attends to Little White and Little Grey. (Photo: SEA LIFE TRUST Beluga Whale Sanctuary/for China Daily)

The beluga whales, which originated in Russia and have spent most of their lives in captivity, will be prepared for the journey and acclimatized once they arrive in Iceland through carefully designed programs. These include introducing the 12-year-olds to specialist equipment, such as the stretchers that will be used to lift and secure them during the journey, and training the whales to hold their breath for longer under water, so they are ready to dive in the deeper water. They will also get conditioning training to build their strength, so they can cope with tides and the current in their new home. And their calorie intake will be increased, so they put on the extra blubber they need to be insulated against the cold.

The journey from China to Iceland will take more than 30 hours and includes legs across air, land, and sea. A team of experts and vets will keep a close eye on Little Grey and Little White throughout the journey, monitoring both their physical and mental wellbeing.