The uncertain future of Canada's 30 rescued belugas
Summary
Canada's Marineland closed in 2024 and moved its 30 beluga whales and four dolphins to various aquariums around the world after the government stopped a sale to China due to animal welfare concerns. Despite the rescue effort, several whales and dolphins have died in their new homes, raising questions about their health and future.Key Facts
- Marineland, a Canadian sea park near Niagara Falls, closed in 2024.
- The Canadian government stopped a plan to sell the belugas to China over animal welfare concerns.
- 30 belugas and 4 dolphins were moved to aquariums in the US and Spain, including SeaWorld San Antonio and Oceanogràfic València.
- Five belugas and one dolphin have died since the transfer.
- Some whales had health problems like chronic liver and digestive diseases, and had swallowed foreign objects before the move.
- Canada banned keeping and breeding whales in captivity seven years ago.
- Public opinion in Canada and other countries has shifted against keeping whales in captivity.
- There are about 3,600 captive cetaceans worldwide, but few safe options for whales that cannot live in the wild.
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