Beluga Whales Rescued From Canadian Park Arrive Safely in Texas

Two beluga whales, Bertie Bott and Frankie, have begun their new lives at SeaWorld San Antonio after an extensive international relocation mission from the now-shuttered Marineland theme park in Canada. Their arrival marks a significant step in a complex operation to move a total of 28 belugas to various aquariums in the United States and Spain.

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I can't help but get just a big giant smile speaking about them.

The whales traveled over 1,500 miles from Niagara Falls, Ontario, to Texas. The journey, which also brought four other belugas to the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, was the culmination of nearly two years of international coordination. Steve Aible, SeaWorld San Antonio's vice president of zoological operations, described the experience as extraordinary, recalling his thoughts during the cargo plane flight: "Who would ever think that you've got a chance to fly with a whale?"

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Who would ever think that you've got a chance to fly with a whale?

A team of 10 caretakers, including veterinarians specializing in marine mammals, accompanied the whales throughout the multi-stage journey, which involved flat-bed trucks and a cargo plane. Constant monitoring ensured the belugas' well-being during transit. Marineland, which closed to the public in 2024, had cited a lack of resources for the animals' care, even stating that euthanasia might be considered if a relocation plan or funding was not secured.

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They're going to just have a much more dynamic and exciting environment here.

In San Antonio, Bertie and Frankie are reportedly thriving, showing engaging behavior and maintaining good appetites, exceeding their caretakers' expectations. Aible expressed optimism about their future, noting they will experience "a much more dynamic and exciting environment here." The two whales will eventually be introduced to the eight belugas already housed at the park. SeaWorld San Antonio is slated to receive 11 more belugas from Marineland, with the remaining whales heading to facilities in Georgia, Chicago, San Diego, and Spain.

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Tens of thousands of people … are going to be able to enjoy these animals.