Marineland Seeks Federal Approval to Export 30 Belugas to U.S. Aquariums
Marineland, located in Niagara Falls, Ontario, has proposed to the federal government a plan to export 30 beluga whales and four dolphins to U.S. aquariums. This request follows an urgent need for a solution regarding the whales, which face the risk of euthanasia if they remain at the facility.
Urgent Need for Export Approval
American aquariums, including Shedd Aquarium in Chicago and Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta, recently visited Marineland. Their goal was to assess the situation and provide a positive future for these belugas. Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson stated she aims to quickly decide on the permit application for export.
Sources close to Marineland indicated that financial difficulties hinder the park’s ability to care for the animals. If the federal permits are denied, euthanasia could become a reality for the whales and dolphins. A euthanasia plan is reportedly in place, which the park may implement soon if faced with a negative decision.
Discussions with U.S. Aquariums
The discussions about potential relocation are ongoing. Marineland is currently in talks with several U.S. facilities, including:
- Shedd Aquarium, Chicago
- Georgia Aquarium, Atlanta
- Mystic Aquarium, Connecticut
- SeaWorld, various locations
However, representatives from these aquariums have remarked that it is too early to commit to accepting the belugas. They emphasize that the animals’ welfare should be the top priority during this process.
Background on Marineland’s Challenges
The challenges facing Marineland stem from a 2019 law that prohibits marine mammal captivity in Canada, known as the Free Willy bill. This legislation has restricted breeding, banned performances, and halted the import or export of marine mammals. It has also forced Marineland to separate its male and female belugas.
In October 2023, Minister Thompson denied an export application to ship the belugas to a Chinese aquarium. Her decision was based on concerns regarding the potential for the whales to perform in captivity, which is considered against their best interests. As a result of these restrictions, Marineland called for emergency funding to support the care of its animals and threatened euthanasia if financial assistance was not provided. No funding materialized, and Marineland ceased public operations in 2024.
Remaining Animals at Marineland
Marineland still houses several other animals, including:
- Seals and sea lions
- A dozen bears
- Several hundred deer
Furthermore, twenty whales, including one killer whale and 19 belugas, have died at the park since 2019, as per records compiled by The Canadian Press.
Support for Export to the U.S.
Some former trainers from Marineland support the proposed export to U.S. facilities. Kristy Burgess expressed enthusiasm about the potential for improved care in U.S. aquariums compared to remaining at Marineland. Phil Demers, another ex-trainer, echoed the sentiment, urging for swift action to rescue the whales and eliminate whale captivity in Canada entirely.
As the situation develops, the focus remains on securing a future for the belugas and dolphins through export, rather than the grim alternative of euthanasia.
