Marineland, the now-defunct theme park and zoo in Niagara Falls, Ontario, has submitted applications to the federal government seeking approval to export all 30 of its beluga whales, as disclosed by a government official familiar with the matter. Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson indicated that the decision on this matter is pending and will prioritize the well-being of the whales.
Chimelong Ocean Kingdom, a theme park in Zhuhai, China, informed CBC News that they are still deliberating on whether to acquire the whales. This year marked the first time in Marineland’s six-decade history, apart from closures due to the COVID-19 pandemic, that the park did not commence its seasonal operations, prompting concerns about the future of the remaining animals there.
Since 2019, nineteen belugas have perished at the park, with the last orca, Kiska, passing away in 2023. Drone footage captured by CBC News at Marineland in late July displayed staff members interacting with the belugas and dolphins still present at the closed facility.
The ‘Ending the Captivity of Whales and Dolphins Act’ (Bill S-203), enacted in 2019, prohibits the use of cetaceans for breeding or entertainment purposes in Canada. The export of cetaceans is also restricted, except under special permits granted by the Minister of Fisheries for scientific research or if it is determined to be in the best interest of the welfare of the cetacean.
Since May 2021, no cetacean export permits have been issued in Canada following the sale of five belugas from Marineland to Mystic Aquarium in Connecticut. Sadly, three of these belugas succumbed to various health conditions within two years of the transfer.
Transporting the belugas, if approved, would necessitate thorough health assessments and planning to ensure their well-being during the journey. Marineland’s request for export details went unanswered, and Animal Welfare Services conducts regular inspections at the park to ensure compliance with care standards.
The decision on Marineland’s export applications will serve as a test of the 2019 act, according to Camille Labchuk from Animal Justice. She advocates for the belugas to be relocated to a seaside sanctuary, potentially funded by Marineland. Releasing the belugas into the ocean is not seen as a viable option due to their lack of adaptation to a wild setting, which could lead to adverse consequences for their survival.
