Marineland is facing a critical shortage of funds and resources to provide sustenance for its 30 beluga whales and other creatures residing at its closed facility, according to the mayor of Niagara Falls, Ont. Mayor Jim Diodati revealed in an interview with Radio-Canada that the park is struggling financially and resorting to extreme measures to support the animals, such as restructuring operations and borrowing money for food supplies.
The iconic theme park in Ontario’s Niagara Region, established in 1961, remained shut throughout the recent season and has been off-limits to the public since late 2024. Despite efforts to sell off assets like rides, Marineland has encountered significant financial obstacles.
Recently, the company expressed concerns about the possibility of euthanizing the remaining belugas after being denied permission by the federal government to relocate them to China. Finding a suitable alternative facility in Canada has proven challenging, with the proposed Nova Scotia sanctuary deemed unsuitable due to pollution concerns and delayed opening.
Premier Doug Ford has advocated for reconsideration of the export permit denial, emphasizing the province’s legal responsibility for animal welfare. The maintenance of the belugas alone reportedly costs around $2 million monthly.
Mayor Diodati has been receiving offers from global animal experts and organizations willing to assist in safeguarding the Marineland animals, particularly the belugas. Coordination between Marineland and government entities is essential to find a viable solution for the animals’ future.
As discussions continue on the fate of the belugas, Marineland anticipates the potential sale of its vast property once the animals are relocated. The mayor envisions a transformation of the park into a premier attraction devoid of animal captivity.
Ultimately, the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders are crucial in ensuring a secure and humane transition for the beloved marine animals, notably the belugas, within Canada.
[Source](https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/hamilton/marineland-food-whales-9.6935343)