Shedd Aquarium finally reveals a long-awaited name for the beluga calf

After months of anticipation, Shedd Aquarium’s youngest beluga whale finally has a name. Following an exclusive vote among aquarium members, the seven-month-old calf will be called Opus—a nod to both his father, Beethoven and the unique vocalizations of belugas, often referred to as the “canaries of the sea.”

The name was chosen from a list curated by Shedd’s animal care team and won by overwhelming support, with over 1,000 members casting their votes. The term “Opus” traditionally refers to a musical composition or a set of works, making it a fitting tribute to the calf’s lineage and the beluga’s naturally musical nature, according to the press release by Shedd Aquarium.

“The chosen name had overwhelming support,” said Charlie Jacobsma, Shedd Aquarium’s director of animal behavior and training, in the same press release. “Our members loved the connection between father and son, found the name to be clever, and appreciated the opportunity to give this special whale a name.”

Opus continues to develop and adapt to his environment, learning the complex range of sounds belugas use to communicate, including chirps, clicks, whistles, and squeals. The aquarium’s animal care staff frequently observe his playful and curious nature as he interacts with trainers and explores his surroundings. His smaller size and darker coloring make him easy to spot among the pod.

For Shedd members, the opportunity to participate in naming Opus added a special layer of engagement. One member shared, “My seven-year-old boy chose the name. This is a great opportunity to get the next generation involved in caring for animals and nature.”

Another voter highlighted how meaningful the experience was: “It is very nice to feel like my membership has an actionable aspect to it, whether choosing a name or helping Shedd make advocacy decisions for the betterment of the environment!”

Beyond naming Opus, Shedd Aquarium hopes that this experience fosters a stronger connection between visitors and belugas. The institution remains dedicated to conserving marine life and educating the public about protecting aquatic species. Through their membership, supporters contribute to vital conservation efforts, biodiversity research, and environmental advocacy.

Opus, now named and growing more each day, serves as an ambassador for his species, inspiring curiosity and care for belugas both at Shedd Aquarium and in the wild. Visitors can catch a glimpse of him as he continues his journey of discovery, learning the songs of his kind.