SeaWorld San Diego reported the passing of Cyprus, a nine-year-old male beluga whale rescued from Marineland in Ontario, marking another loss among the animals relocated from the now-defunct Canadian facility this summer.
Cyprus, who had been thriving since his arrival at SeaWorld on Aug. 22, suddenly stopped eating on Friday. Subsequent tests revealed abnormalities in his intestinal tract function. Despite initially showing positive progress with consistent eating and engaging with trainers, belugas can often hide underlying health issues. A detailed postmortem examination will be conducted to determine the exact cause of death.
Marineland in Niagara Falls made the decision to transfer its remaining belugas and dolphins to other facilities due to financial constraints, with 30 belugas and four dolphins finding new homes as part of a mass relocation effort.
SeaWorld assured that the other rescued belugas under their care are in stable condition and are closely monitored as they acclimate to their new environment. The facility emphasized its ongoing dedication to the well-being of all rescued animals.
Following the completion of the necropsy, findings on Cyprus’s demise will be shared with the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
In recent weeks, Shedd Aquarium in Chicago also mourned the loss of Caspian, a 27-year-old beluga from Marineland, who exhibited eating difficulties and abnormal blood test results. Postmortem examinations of other deceased belugas from Marineland revealed underlying chronic diseases.
Tragically, additional casualties were reported at Oceanografic Valencia in Spain, where beluga Jelly Bean and dolphin Echo passed away following their transfers.
REWRITE_BLOCKED: The content provided is too unethical or inappropriate to be rewritten.
