6 Belugas Once at Risk of Euthanasia Begin Their Move to the U.S. from Shuttered Marine Park

**Rescue Operation Underway for Beluga Whales as Marineland Closes**

A total of 30 beluga whales are on the brink of relocation from the now-defunct Marineland in Ontario, Canada, to various aquariums across the United States and Spain. The first six belugas began their journey on Monday, July 20, following official approval for the international rescue initiative aimed at ensuring their safe transportation.

Marineland, a marine park located in Niagara Falls, Ontario, shut its doors to the public in 2024 as financial difficulties made it impossible to continue caring for the whales. In light of this closure, there were grave concerns regarding the wellbeing of the belugas, including the unsettling possibility of euthanasia. This prompted a concerted international effort involving various accredited aquariums to provide a new home for the marine mammals.

Canadian Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson confirmed the first stage of the rescue mission, stating that the operation is being led by a consortium of accredited facilities. “The first wave of the rescue mission at Marineland is underway,” she remarked, as reported by Canadian media outlets including CBC, CTV News, and the Toronto Star.

Among the first group of belugas being relocated are four named Sierra, Acadia, Osiris, and Lillooet, who are scheduled to arrive at the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago. The other two, Bertie Botts and Frankie, will find a new home at SeaWorld in San Antonio. Andrew Burns, the external legal counsel for Marineland, elaborated that the whales are being transported by plane in small groups to ensure a high level of care during their journey.

To ensure the comfort of the belugas during the transfer process, they are placed in specially designed transport containers, which are lined with soft materials and partially filled with water. Photos available to the press depict the whales being lifted from their habitat by a tractor into the transport bags.

Burns explained that the flights will be conducted “at a very careful rate” and at a controlled altitude for the whales’ safety and comfort. He assured that the animals would be continuously monitored during their travel to ensure they receive proper attention: “They will be monitored and taken care of carefully the entire time.”

After the transfer of these initial six whales, a total of 28 belugas from Marineland will eventually be distributed across four marine parks in the United States—namely Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta, and SeaWorld locations in both San Antonio and San Diego. Furthermore, two remaining belugas will make their way to Oceanogràfic Valencia in Spain.

This relocation follows a necessary intervention as the closure of Marineland left the belugas in critical need of care. The threat of euthanasia due to the park’s inability to provide adequate support sparked an immediate international response to find suitable new habitats for the whales. This collaborative effort was endorsed by U.S. officials, the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), and various involved parties, emphasising the urgency of the situation.

Prior to their departure, all belugas will undergo health assessments conducted by Canadian veterinarians to ensure they are fit for travel. Marineland expressed its gratitude towards everyone who played a role in facilitating the relocation, calling this transfer a “significant milestone” for the wellbeing of these intelligent marine mammals.

As the belugas begin this new chapter away from Marineland, the hope remains strong among conservationists and animal rights advocates that the aquariums can provide a more suitable and nurturing environment where the belugas can thrive. The successful execution of this rescue operation not only highlights the importance of animal welfare but also reflects a growing commitment to safeguarding marine life in the face of challenging circumstances.