Seven more beluga whales arrive in Texas as relocation effort continues

SeaWorld San Antonio has welcomed seven more beluga whales, marking a significant step in the ongoing international effort to relocate dozens of these mammals from a now-closed Canadian theme park. The group of females, named Xena, Gemini, Skyla, Meeka, Eve, Neva, and Calypso, arrived Tuesday, representing the largest beluga transfer ever completed in the United States.

These new arrivals are currently acclimating to their new environment in a private habitat, kept away from public view. Caretakers are closely monitoring their health and behavior, ensuring they receive dedicated veterinary care, proper nutrition, and attentive support as they adjust. This careful process is crucial for the whales' well-being following their stressful journey.

The seven whales join Frankie and Bertie Botts, who made a similar nearly 2,000-mile journey from Niagara Falls to San Antonio last month. Four other whales from that initial transport were sent to the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago. The two males are reportedly adjusting well and are being gradually introduced to the existing whales at SeaWorld.

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We are so happy that all went well and the second transport of this huge rescue effort is complete.

Marineland, the theme park from which the whales are being relocated, closed to the public in 2024. The park stated it lacked the resources to continue caring for the animals and had warned of euthanasia if a relocation plan or funding was not secured. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration approved the relocations to ensure the belugas receive necessary medical treatment and care, noting that no Canadian facilities could provide the required husbandry or medical support.

Seventeen beluga whales still remain at Marineland. Officials anticipate they will be moved to aquariums in Georgia, Chicago, San Diego, and Spain, though a specific timeline for these future transfers has not yet been announced.

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They are receiving veterinary care, nutrition and attention as they acclimate to their new environment.