Peekachu, a 23-year-old beluga whale that was recently transferred from Marineland in Niagara Falls, Ontario, has passed away at the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago. The aquarium announced the death on Wednesday, the same day when two other belugas and four dolphins were being moved to Spain.
Peekachu, described as “unique” by the aquarium, was blind in one eye and one of the smaller whales in the group of eight belugas that were flown to Shedd two weeks ago. Despite her challenges, Peekachu was able to socialize and adapt to her new environment.
Initially showing signs of progress by consuming squid, herring, and capelin, Peekachu later experienced a decline in appetite. A blood test revealed dehydration, and despite efforts to provide medical care and fluids, she passed away suddenly on Tuesday evening. A necropsy is underway to determine the cause of death.
Marineland expressed sadness over Peekachu’s death but assured that the remaining whales are receiving top-notch care at Shedd. Federal Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson extended condolences and acknowledged the efforts of accredited zoos and aquariums in supporting the rescue mission.
Meanwhile, the four dolphins that departed Marineland for their new home in Spain are reportedly the last captive dolphins in Canada. Animal Justice’s legal advocacy director, Kaitlyn Mitchell, expressed concern over the health risks faced by the belugas during transportation, noting previous deaths among exported belugas.
Mitchell criticized the rush to relocate the animals from Marineland, suggesting that better care could have been provided on-site until the whales were healthy enough to move. She raised questions about the export permits issued for the animals despite potential health concerns.
The remaining six belugas at Marineland, the last captive whales in Canada, are slated to be transferred to a U.S. aquarium as part of the park’s relocation plan due to financial constraints. Previous attempts to sell the belugas and dolphins to China were thwarted by Canadian regulations banning whale and dolphin captivity, breeding, and performances.
To secure alternative arrangements, Marineland collaborated with American and Spanish aquariums, resulting in the relocation of the belugas to various SeaWorld locations and the Georgia Aquarium. The park’s decision to seek international partnerships followed a standoff with Ottawa over the fate of the marine animals.