Concerning Belugas: Swimming the Circuit (Captain Nemo)

Beluga Webcam, courtesy of Vancouver Aquarium

Disclaimer: Any images, unless otherwise specified, are screenshots that I've taken from the above linked webcam.

I've already expressed my concerns regarding captivity of orcas and dolphins: largely due to their confirmedly high levels of intelligence, particularly social. Wake and Nemo are both captive Belugas, and I think Nemo may be demonstrating some tendencies associated with captivity- I will look in to the research at a later date.

There are many reports concerning boredom in captive animals, and the many habits that may accompany the feeling. Although, from what I can tell the tank is sufficiently large, especially considering the number of animals in it (2 as far as I can tell), Nemo is clearly showing signs of 'pacing'. I'm not certain of the technical term, however, Nemo is showing a consistent pattern of movement. For the past 35min. Nemo has relentlessly swum the same circuit, coming up to breath on average every 2-3 completed circuits.

1. As you can see, this particular animal is Nemo (I discussed on the last post the ridges on his/her tail can be seen from the sides, that make up a unique pattern when turned). Nemo begins the circuit by entering upside down. He/She always enters from this point

2. It's hard to see on this image...
Nemo continues to swim upside down heading towards the boulder like structure near the far end of the exhibit (better view of the structure on the previous image). Nemo's head hardly moves when upside down.

3. Better to see the exact positioning on this image (screenshot).
As you can see, Nemo goes far into the left corner.

4. Once Nemo reaches the end of the tank he turns on his side (exposing his tell-tale indentations).
He usually starts to turn when he's a meter or so behind the boulder.

5. Nemo then disappears behind the boulder and when he appears again, he's righted himself.
The times that I've observed him he's always swum in-between the two boulders.

6. Nemo continues on his upright journey.

7a. Nemo swims upright until he disappears from view, and when he appears, usually 5-10 seconds later, he is upside down again. And the process repeats itself.

Or 7b. Every 2-3 completed circuits when completing his circuit, Nemo pushes his head up to catch a breath, before disappearing.