Relocation of Beluga Whales Underway from Closed Canadian Theme Park

Twenty-eight beluga whales are slated for relocation from a closed Canadian theme park to various aquariums across the United States. This follows the approval of an emergency import by federal officials earlier this month, part of an international rescue mission.

Marineland, a theme park in Niagara Falls, Ontario, ceased public operations in 2024 but retained possession of the whales. The park cited insufficient resources for their care. Approximately a year after closing, Marineland indicated that euthanasia would be necessary without either a relocation plan or additional funding.

According to a joint statement from the aquariums involved, these belugas will be transported to accredited institutions including SeaWorld San Antonio and San Diego, the Georgia Aquarium, and the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago. Furthermore, two whales are destined for Oceanografic Valencia in Spain, subject to approval from the Spanish government.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration confirmed the relocation in July, emphasizing the availability of medical treatment and care in the U.S. that are unavailable in Canada. Spokespersons noted no Canadian facilities can provide adequate husbandry or medical care for these whales.

Marineland has faced criticism for its animal treatment practices, with reports of twenty whale deaths since 2019, confirmed by The Canadian Press news agency. In 2019, Canada enacted legislation banning the captivity of whales and dolphins.

In January, Canada’s Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson greenlighted a conditional proposal for the whales’ U.S. transfer. She detailed that final export authorization from Canada hinges on veterinary health checks for each whale, as stated in her July 8 release.

The rescue initiative, set to span several weeks, prioritizes the whales’ comfort and safety during the transition.