The 336,000 ha Niginganiq (nee geen ga nik) National Wildlife Area (Isabella Bay) is a marine region on Baffin Island that is a crucial feeding area for threatened bowhead whales. The area also includes a shallow shelf at the entrance to the bay for predatory orca whales. Polar bears, ringed seals, Canada geese, snow geese, halibut, and narwhal are also found in and around the area.

The Akpait (ak pa eet) and Qaqulluit (ka koo loo eet) NWAs near Qikiqtarjuaq (kick-ih-TAR-jew-ack) (Broughton Island) are known for significant populations of seabirds including one of Canada's largest Thick-billed Murre colonies, and Canada's largest colony of Northern Fulmars.

"Inuit began negotiations for the three National Wildlife Areas plus two already established, and eight Migratory Bird Sanctuaries in Nunavut in 2001. Today's historic signing brings that work . . . to an end, and makes our years of struggles worthwhile. This is a big day for Inuit," said Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. Acting President, James Eetoolook.