- Hunting: Beluga whales are hunted for their meat, skin, and blubber. In some regions, they are also hunted for sport.
- Habitat loss: The beluga whale's habitat is being threatened by climate change, pollution, and coastal development.
- Pollution: Beluga whales are exposed to a variety of pollutants, including heavy metals, pesticides, and plastics. These pollutants can accumulate in the whales' tissues and cause a variety of health problems, including cancer, reproductive problems, and immune system disorders.
- Climate change: Climate change is causing the sea ice in the Arctic to melt, which is disrupting the beluga whale's habitat and food supply.
- Noise pollution: Beluga whales are sensitive to noise pollution, which can interfere with their ability to communicate and find food.
- Entanglement: Beluga whales can become entangled in fishing nets and other marine debris, which can cause injury or death.
As a result of these threats, beluga whales are considered to be a vulnerable species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).