Shedd Aquarium in Chicago has reported the unfortunate deaths of two whales following the transfer of 10 beluga whales from Marineland in Niagara Falls, Ontario. One whale named Rain arrived from Marineland in mid-August, while the other, Beethoven, was already residing at the aquarium. This relocation effort involved shipping 30 belugas and four dolphins to various destinations in collaboration with Marineland and several other aquariums.
Tragically, another beluga from Marineland, Peekachu, passed away last week due to severe dehydration. Despite immediate efforts to save the whales, Shedd confirmed that the deaths occurred on Wednesday afternoon. They are conducting tests and necropsies to determine the causes of the deaths.
In response to the losses, Shedd expressed the challenges of obtaining concrete answers regarding the circumstances leading to the whales’ passing. Marineland conveyed deep sadness over Rain’s death, expressing sympathy for the trainers and staff who cared for Rain.
The recently relocated animals were the last captive whales and dolphins in Canada following a governmental ban on the practice in 2019, with an exception granted to Marineland. The park is currently up for sale, with a deal pending for the land contingent on the removal of the animals, as several hundred deer remain on the premises.
Marineland ceased public operations in 2024, following the passing of its founder, John Holer, in 2018 and his widow, Marie Holer, shortly after the park’s closure. Financial constraints prompted the need to relocate the animals from the park.
The federal government intervened in a previous plan to transfer the animals to China, leading Marineland to seek alternative solutions. The belugas and dolphins have since been moved to Shedd Aquarium, SeaWorld locations in San Diego and San Antonio, Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta, and Oceanografic Valencia in Spain.
Notably, the belugas and dolphins underwent health assessments before each relocation, with Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson granting final approval for each move. Unfortunately, between 2019 and 2025, 19 belugas, one killer whale, and one dolphin died at Marineland due to various reasons.
Marineland had previously transferred five whales to Mystic Aquarium in Connecticut in 2021, resulting in the deaths of two whales within a year and another two years post-transfer. Mystic Aquarium cited pre-existing conditions, while Marineland maintained the whales were healthy upon departure.