Another beluga whale and a harbor seal have passed away at Marineland, attracting the attention of Ontario Premier Doug Ford. This recent beluga fatality is the 20th case of whale deaths at the tourist attraction in Niagara Falls since 2019. Marineland has remained closed to the public since last summer and is currently in the process of potentially selling the park without any official announcement on reopening.
Sources indicate that the most recent beluga whale death occurred after unauthorized individuals trespassed into the park in mid-August. These intruders reportedly entered Friendship Cove, where the male belugas are housed, causing agitation among the whales. As a result, younger belugas attacked an older one, leading to its eventual demise despite efforts by Marineland staff to provide medical care.
The park is said to still house around 30 belugas, the last remaining captive whales in Canada. Concerns have been raised by Phil Demers, a former Marineland trainer turned critic, about the deteriorating conditions for the animals, emphasizing the need for urgent action.
Following a conversation with Doug Ford, Demers expressed optimism about potential interventions to aid the remaining animals. Ford, considering seizing the park to assist the animals, discussed the complexities of relocating the whales and obtaining necessary export permits with Demers during their call.
Marineland has previously relocated some animals, such as nine Magellanic penguins to the Saint Louis Zoo. However, the belugas, dolphins, seals, sea lions, bears, and deer remain at Marineland, prompting calls for government intervention to safeguard the animals’ well-being.
Ford’s office acknowledged the ongoing situation at Marineland, emphasizing the province’s commitment to animal welfare. The government is exploring various options to address the challenges of relocating the whales and dolphins, considering potential destinations abroad due to federal regulations in Canada.
Efforts to improve the conditions at Marineland have faced obstacles, with ongoing concerns about animal welfare and the park’s operations. Despite regulatory oversight and enforcement, questions linger regarding the park’s compliance with animal care standards and the need for increased transparency in the inspection process.
Wayne Gates, a provincial member of parliament, has called for federal intervention and greater transparency regarding the inspection findings at Marineland. Public scrutiny continues as the park remains closed, with visible security measures in place and ongoing discussions surrounding the welfare of the captive marine animals.
