Marineland begins transporting 6 beluga whales to U.S. aquariums

Marineland has begun the intricate process of relocating six beluga whales to aquariums in the United States, marking a significant milestone in a deal with an international consortium of marine parks. U.S. authorities recently approved the move, characterizing it as an "emergency rescue" for the marine mammals.

The transportation of such large animals is a complex undertaking, according to Marineland, requiring extensive planning and coordination across borders. This operation involves specialized containers, transport trucks, and assistance from local police for traffic control. Phil Demers, a former Marineland trainer and vocal critic of the park, described the relocation as a "historical moment," suggesting it signals the beginning of the end for the facility.

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Today marks a significant milestone.

Demers believes this move, along with the planned removal of dolphins and other belugas, will ultimately lead to Marineland's closure. He acknowledged the inherent stress and risks for the animals during such transfers but expressed confidence in the professionals handling the operation, noting his own experience with similar transfers.

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These will be the first of the last of those animals. The list of animals that have survived Marineland up until recently had almost no names on it, and now there’s a long list including bears, including bison … the dolphins will ultimately and the belugas will be entirely removed and that will be the end of Marineland.

Marineland has been seeking to move its beluga whales and dolphins for some time. A previous attempt to transport 30 belugas and four dolphins to China was blocked by the Canadian federal fisheries minister. Subsequently, the park reached an agreement with the consortium of U.S. aquariums, including Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, SeaWorld in San Antonio and San Diego, and Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta. Some whales are also slated to go to the Oceanografic Valencia in Spain.

Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson stated that the consortium will release further details as the operation progresses, calling the first wave of the mission "underway." The plan, obtained by The Canadian Press, outlines the division of remaining whales among four U.S. aquariums and one in Spain.

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The first wave of the rescue mission at Marineland is underway. I would like to extend my thanks and appreciation to the consortium, the veterinarians on site, and all or