Marineland relocates whales to aquariums outside of Canada in a bid for survival.
A significant operation is underway as Marineland in Niagara Falls, Ont., moves six beluga whales to Shedd Aquarium in Chicago and Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta. These whales, two males and four females, are being carefully transferred from custom slings into tanks before embarking on a journey from Toronto’s Pearson airport.
Facing financial challenges and unable to provide adequate care for the whales, Marineland closed its doors in 2024. The park’s decision to transfer the last remaining captive whales in Canada comes after initial attempts to sell them to an aquarium in China were blocked by the fisheries minister.
The ongoing relocation, described by Marineland as “unprecedented,” aims to ensure the well-being of the whales. Previous transfers saw six belugas sent to Shedd and SeaWorld in San Antonio, followed by another seven to the San Antonio facility.
Through collaboration with a consortium of American and Spanish aquariums, Marineland is working to find new homes for the remaining whales and dolphins. SeaWorld in San Diego and Oceanografic Valencia in Spain are set to receive some of these marine mammals.
With a pressing deadline looming, Marineland aims to complete the relocation of all whales by the end of the month to avoid the possibility of euthanasia if the move is not successful.
