Captive Whale Relocations Raise Concerns

Marineland recently relocated all its remaining captive whales and dolphins to various destinations following the Canadian government’s prohibition on keeping captive whales in 2019. The Ontario theme park’s 30 belugas and four dolphins were dispersed to five locations in the U.S. and Spain, marking the largest transfer of these animals globally.

Tragically, four belugas and one dolphin have perished since the transfers began. The most recent death occurred on Sept. 24 at Oceanogràfic de València in Spain, raising concerns about the impact of the moves on the animals’ well-being. Echo, a blind Black Sea bottlenose dolphin aged around 30, was transported to Oceanogràfic on a lengthy journey from Niagara Falls, Ontario, on Aug. 26. Upon arrival, Echo exhibited severe vision issues and other medical complications requiring specialized care, but unfortunately, his condition rapidly deteriorated, leading to his passing.

Transporting belugas is known to be highly stressful for these creatures, explained Naomi Rose, a senior scientist in marine mammal biology at the Animal Welfare Institute in Washington, D.C. She emphasized the significant stress cetaceans experience during transportation due to their nature.

Oceanogràfic received four Marineland dolphins and two belugas on Aug. 26, resulting in the deaths of one dolphin and one beluga. Further investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of these deaths. The other relocated animals are reportedly faring well under the care of Oceanogràfic’s professional teams.

In a separate relocation to Chicago’s Shedd Aquarium, 10 beluga whales from Marineland were transferred, with several of them succumbing to health issues post-relocation. The deaths of these belugas are currently under investigation by Shedd Aquarium.

SeaWorld, which received 16 belugas from Marineland, reported that the animals are in stable health, with continuous monitoring by their animal care and veterinary teams. However, further observation is needed to ensure the belugas’ well-being in their new environment.

The Georgia Aquarium received two belugas from Marineland, and while the animals are adjusting well, some concerns over appetite and weight gain have been noted. The aquarium is closely monitoring their progress and integration with the other whales.

Experts have highlighted the challenges belugas face during relocation, emphasizing the stress and psychological impact of such moves on these highly social and intelligent marine mammals. Despite the distressing outcomes, the difficult decision to relocate the animals was deemed necessary due to Marineland’s closure and inability to provide adequate care for the belugas.

The Canadian government, responsible for approving the emergency rescue of the belugas, ensured safety measures were in place before the transfers commenced. However, concerns persist regarding the health and well-being of the relocated animals, with experts predicting potential additional deaths among the remaining whales.