Canadian Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson expressed confidence in Marineland’s proposal to transfer 34 marine mammals to U.S. aquariums, indicating a growing likelihood of relocating belugas and dolphins from the closed Niagara Falls amusement park. The news of Ottawa granting conditional approval for the animal relocation has raised concerns among animal advocates, who fear potential breeding and performance exploitation in their new environments.
The plan involves sending 30 belugas and four dolphins to accredited facilities known for high animal welfare standards, as confirmed by Thompson in an interview with CBC News. The designated aquariums considering acquiring these animals include Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta, Mystic Aquarium in Connecticut, and a SeaWorld location, all recognized by Accredited Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).
Thompson outlined two essential conditions for Marineland to meet in their export approval process. These conditions include health assessments of the belugas and dolphins by accredited veterinarians and a robust transportation plan. Once these requirements are met, the plan aims to offer the animals a healthier living environment.
Since 2019, twenty whales at Marineland, including one orca and 19 belugas, have died based on internal records and official statements. The park closed in late 2024 following years of controversy and opposition from animal rights activists over the living conditions and performances of the animals. A federal law enacted in 2019 prohibits the breeding or entertainment use of whales, dolphins, and porpoises, requiring special permits for their export.
As Ottawa deliberates on granting export permits for Marineland, Animal Justice Executive Director Camille Labchuk stresses the importance of including stipulations that prevent the animals from performing or breeding in their new homes. While there were hopes of the belugas going to a proposed whale sanctuary in Nova Scotia, the project’s progress remains pending due to ongoing construction and fundraising challenges.
Regarding concerns about potential breeding and performing at the new facilities, a government source mentioned that the animals would adhere to state laws in the U.S., where some states allow such activities. The source emphasized that the transfer to the U.S. would ensure compliance with local regulations and AZA accreditation for enhanced animal welfare standards.
Former Marineland beluga trainer Kristy Burgess supports the relocation plan, believing that the proposed U.S. facilities offer a positive future for the animals. Burgess trusts that the fisheries minister would safeguard the marine mammals during the transfer process, minimizing risks of exploitation. She also dismisses concerns about breeding in the new facilities, emphasizing the urgency of moving the animals to prevent euthanasia threats by Marineland.
In summary, the relocation of the belugas and dolphins from Marineland to U.S. aquariums is progressing amidst regulatory considerations and advocacy for improved animal welfare in their new environments.