Another six whales being moved out of Marineland, headed to U.S. aquariums

A third group of six beluga whales has departed Marineland in Niagara Falls, Ontario, for aquariums in the United States, a move the park described as a "major milestone" in its ambitious relocation project for its captive marine mammals.

Under overcast skies, specialists carefully guided the belugas into custom slings before hoisting them into transport tanks. The operation, which began with the males, proceeded smoothly despite a brief weather-related pause. Organizers monitored the conditions closely, ensuring the animals' well-being throughout the process. One female whale required a minor tail injury assessment but was cleared for travel after treatment.

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We’ve had really no substantial issues whatsoever. All the animals are safely in their new homes, they’re all adjusting well and everyone is just getting better and better, and the operation is getting smoother.

The convoy of six whales, including males Zephyr and Balor, and females Caspian, Pikachu, Secord, and Rain, set off by police escort towards Toronto Pearson International Airport. From there, they were scheduled to be flown to their new homes: the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago and the Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta.

Andrew Burns, an advisor for Marineland, expressed satisfaction with the ongoing transfers, noting "no substantial issues whatsoever." He stated that two-thirds of the whales are now safely rehoused, with 11 remaining at the park. Future transfers are planned, including a flight to Spain for dolphins and two other belugas. Marineland, which closed to the public in 2024 and is now for sale, has cited financial difficulties as the reason it can no longer care for the animals.

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And today we are going to reduce the number of whales here down to 11, which is … a major milestone. Two thirds are going to be out and safely rehoused.