Animal Justice is urging Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) to look into the passing of Peekachu, a 23-year-old beluga from Marineland in Niagara Falls, Ont., at a Chicago aquarium. The national animal law advocacy group is also requesting DFO to pause the ongoing effort to move marine mammals from the closed theme park until a thorough investigation is concluded.
Peekachu was transferred to Shedd Aquarium on Aug. 13 and sadly perished on Aug. 25. Kaitlyn Mitchell, the legal advocacy director at Animal Justice, has written a letter to Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson, asking DFO to investigate how Peekachu was cleared for transport despite apparent health issues.
Before the relocation, accredited Canadian veterinarians were required to conduct health evaluations of the whales, as confirmed by a source to CBC News in January. Shedd Aquarium mentioned that Peekachu was dehydrated and had poor appetite before her sudden passing while receiving medical care.
DFO stated that they had taken necessary steps to ensure the welfare of the whales, including obtaining CITES permits and Fisheries Act authorizations after individual health assessments. The minister’s office expressed confidence in the rescue plan and the professionals caring for the animals.
Animal Justice’s letter calls for the suspension of moving the remaining six belugas, the last captive whales in Canada, until Peekachu’s death is investigated and the health of the other whales is verified for the journey to their new habitats. Concerns have been raised about the stressful nature of cetacean transport, especially for potentially compromised animals.
Marineland had initially planned to send its belugas and dolphins to China but was stopped by Ottawa due to a law prohibiting whale and dolphin captivity. Following this, the animals were relocated to American and Spanish aquariums, including SeaWorld locations.
Naomi Rose, a marine mammal biology scientist, supports Animal Justice’s demand for an inquiry, criticizing Marineland for neglecting responsibility towards the whales. She expressed fears of additional whale deaths, citing potential genetic conditions and stress-related health issues.
The relocation of Marineland’s whales to various facilities has raised concerns about increased stress and separation among the animals. Rose emphasized the need for accountability and better planning for the well-being of the belugas, suggesting that sending them to a sanctuary would have been a preferable option.
Amidst the challenges faced by the Marineland whales, uncertainties persist regarding the best course of action for their safety and welfare.
