Four beluga whales from Marineland in Niagara Falls were safely transported to the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago after a team of workers carefully guided them into tanks using a custom sling. The female whales joined four others previously transferred in July. Two male belugas were flown to Georgia Aquarium while the females were taken to Chicago.
The new arrivals at the Shedd Aquarium, including Caspian, Peekachu, Rain, and Secord, are settling into their new environment under constant observation by the animal care team. The aquarium is committed to rescuing up to two more belugas from Marineland to ensure their well-being.
Marineland, facing financial challenges, is in the process of relocating its marine mammals to various facilities in the United States. The complex operation, deemed essential for the whales’ survival, has received support from multiple organizations and facilities involved in the rescue efforts.
With the recent move of six belugas to new homes and plans for further relocations, Marineland aims to have all its remaining whales relocated by the end of the month. Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson commended the collaborative efforts that made the successful transfer of the belugas possible.