A dolphin that was relocated from Marineland has passed away in Spain, marking the fifth animal from the closed tourist attraction in Niagara Falls, Ontario, to die following a significant transfer of whales and dolphins during the summer.
On Wednesday, Oceanogràfic de València announced the death of Echo, a blind Black Sea bottlenose dolphin believed to be 30 years old.
“In recent hours, Echo started experiencing difficulties in swallowing and respiratory issues, prompting her transfer to the medical pool,” stated Oceanogràfic.
“Her condition deteriorated rapidly yesterday, and despite the attentive care provided by Oceanografic’s animal care and veterinary teams, she passed away overnight.”
On August 26, Echo, along with three other dolphins and two belugas, were transported to Oceanogràfic in a lengthy 19-hour journey from the closed Niagara Falls tourist site.
One of the belugas, named Jelly Bean, passed away last week.
Necropsies are being conducted on both animals by Oceanogràfic, along with an evaluation by pathology experts at CEU Cardenal Herrera University, to determine the cause of death.
“The other four animals brought from Canada are in good health and are being closely monitored and cared for by Oceanogràfic’s professional teams,” Oceanogràfic confirmed.
“The loss of Echo is a particularly challenging moment for the Oceanogràfic team, who had been dedicated to her well-being and care due to her specific needs since her arrival.”
Four belugas and one dolphin have now passed away since Marineland transferred 30 belugas and four dolphins to five different parks over the summer.
At Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, three belugas from Marineland and one resident beluga from the park have died.
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