OneWhale

Hvaldimir needs protection and advocacy until relocated to a wild beluga population.

WHO IS HVALDIMIR?

Hvaldimir is a young male beluga whale, likely trained by a Russian research facility, discovered in a Norwegian fjord in April 2019 wearing a harness. He has stayed in Norway's fjords since being freed, earning the nickname ‘Russian Spy Whale’ and attracting public interest.

WHY DOES HE NEED HELP?

Hvaldimir’s current situation is unsustainable. Although free, he is not a wild whale and stays near salmon farms and seaports, seeking human interaction. He is habituated to humans, lacks a beluga pod, and faces daily dangers in busy harbors and near fishing operations. This situation puts both Hvaldimir and people interacting with him at risk.

DAILY RISKS:

Unregulated Tourism & Boat Propellers: Hundreds of tourists interact with him daily, posing risks from boats and propellers.

Commercial Fishing: Large, unattended nets pose a drowning hazard.

Salmon Farms: Hvaldimir’s presence disrupts operations, making him unwelcome.

A VOICE FOR HVALDIMIR

OneWhale.org, a 501c3 nonprofit, is dedicated to Hvaldimir’s protection and finding a long-term solution. Experts believe he can integrate into a wild whale population and unlearn human-conditioned behaviors.

OneWhale has secured a permit for his relocation and continues to advocate for his safety.

HOW CAN WE HELP HVALDIMIR?

Without intervention, Hvaldimir’s life is at risk. Daily protection and education efforts come at a cost, and your donations will support on-site expenses for Hvaldimir's care and his relocation.

WHEN WILL HE BE MOVED?

The Norwegian Government has granted OneWhale a permit to relocate Hvaldimir from Stavanger to Kirkenes, a natural Arctic habitat visited by hundreds of belugas each year. The move is planned for Fall 2024, so we need to act quickly to raise an additional $100,000 to cover the costs.

SUPPORT HVALDIMIR

Your donation will help cover necessary expenses for Hvaldimir’s safety and relocation. Please share, join our newsletter, and donate to support Hvaldimir and the OneWhale.org team.

Thank you from Hvaldimir and the OneWhale.org Team.