Marineland Canada whales died after relocation to US and Spain facilities
Following the September 2024 closure of Marineland Canada in Niagara Falls, Ontario, an international effort relocated its cetaceans but resulted in multiple deaths at new sites.
Relocation efforts after park closure
The Association of Zoos and Aquariums led a global initiative to move the animals once their income source ended. Thirty belugas and four dolphins were transported from the Canadian facility to locations in the United States and Spain.
Deaths occurred at new sites
One resident beluga and three transplanted belugas died while housed at a U.S. facility after the move. Additionally, one beluga died at a Spanish facility following the relocation process.
Sanctuary models face funding gaps
Proponents suggested netted ocean pens as a suitable environment for these displaced cetaceans. Currently, no active cetacean sanctuaries operate worldwide with animals under the required nonprofit and low-interaction standards.
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