World's biggest marine mammal rescue begins in Canada as 30 beluga whales are relocated from shuttered Marineland after euthanasia fears
Why the 30 beluga whales are being relocated in Canada How the historic rescue mission is unfolding Which aquariums will receive the rescued belugas? Belugas
Why the 30 beluga whales are being relocated in Canada How the historic rescue mission is unfolding Which aquariums will receive the rescued belugas? Belugas are being moved with their social groups Emergency permits cleared the way for the rescue One of the most complex marine mammal relocations ever attempted What happens next for the rescued whales? One of the largest marine mammal rescue operations ever attempted is underway in Canada as experts begin relocating 30 beluga whales from the now-closed Marineland Canada in Niagara Falls, Ontario. The ambitious mission follows fears that the whales could eventually face euthanasia after funding for their care dwindled following the park's closure in 2024. The first six belugas have already been transported to accredited aquariums in the United States after undergoing extensive veterinary assessments. Marine mammal specialists, veterinarians and caretakers are overseeing every stage of the operation, which is expected to continue for several weeks before all 30 whales are safely relocated to new long-term homes.The rescue operation stems from the closure of Marineland Canada in September 2024 after years of controversy surrounding animal welfare allegations, legal challenges and declining visitor numbers. Although donations initially covered the care of the remaining whales, those funds eventually ran out.
In October 2025, Marineland sought financial assistance from the Canadian government, warning it could no longer afford to feed and care for the marine mammals.Animal welfare advocates feared the whales could eventually face euthanasia if a permanent solution was not found, prompting an international rescue effort.The relocation began with six beluga whales leaving Marineland for their new homes in the United States. Before travelling, each whale underwent detailed health examinations to ensure it was fit for transport. The belugas were lifted using specially designed support slings before being placed inside custom-built cold-water transport containers. They were then transported by truck to Toronto Pearson International Airport and flown aboard a Qatar Airways Boeing 777 cargo aircraft under constant veterinary supervision.Each stage of the relocation is being overseen by aquatic veterinarians, marine mammal trainers and animal care specialists. Officials said the whales are never left unattended during transport, with caretakers continuously monitoring their breathing, hydration, stress levels and overall health. Some caretakers even travelled alongside the whales inside the specialised transport area to ensure immediate assistance if required. Experts described the animals as being in excellent health before departure despite their uncertain future at Marineland.The first six belugas have safely arrived at Shedd Aquarium in Chicago and SeaWorld San Antonio in Texas.
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