Four beluga whales were successfully transported from Marineland in Niagara Falls, Ont., to the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago. These four females will be joining other belugas previously transferred to the aquarium in July. The whales were carefully guided into a custom sling at Marineland before being transported to their new homes. While two males were flown to the Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta, the females made their way to Chicago.
The newly arrived belugas are currently settling in at Shedd’s Abbott Oceanarium under close observation. The aquarium’s animal care team is monitoring their behavior, food intake, and adjustment to their new environment. The whales, including Caspian, Peekachu, Rain, and Secord, will soon be reunited with their companions from Marineland to foster social bonds and support their transition.
Shedd is committed to rescuing up to two more belugas from Marineland as part of the ongoing effort to relocate the marine mammals to new facilities. Marineland, facing financial challenges, has been sending its whales to the United States for their well-being. The complex operation is crucial for the survival of these belugas and dolphins, as Marineland plans to rehome all remaining marine animals by the end of the month.
The Fisheries Minister, Joanne Thompson, expressed gratitude to the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, Canada’s Accredited Zoos and Aquariums, and the receiving facilities for their support in the successful relocation of the belugas. This rescue mission is a collaborative effort to ensure the welfare of these marine mammals during their transition to new environments.
