The Canadian Fisheries Minister, Joanne Thompson, expressed confidence in Marineland’s proposal to transfer 34 marine mammals to U.S. aquariums. The plan involves relocating belugas and dolphins from the now-closed amusement park in Niagara Falls, Ontario. However, animal advocates are concerned about the potential use of the animals for breeding and performances in their new homes.
Thompson mentioned that 30 belugas and four dolphins are set to be sent to accredited facilities known for their high animal welfare standards. Among the aquariums considering acquiring the animals are Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta, Mystic Aquarium in Connecticut, and a SeaWorld location, all accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).
Two conditions were outlined by Thompson for Marineland to meet to receive export approval—evaluation of the health of the belugas and dolphins by accredited veterinarians and a detailed transportation plan. Once these conditions are met, Thompson believes the plan will provide the animals with a healthier environment to live their lives.
Marineland has faced criticism in recent years, with 20 whales, including one orca and 19 belugas, dying since 2019. The park closed its doors to the public in late 2024 due to ongoing controversies regarding animal welfare and performance practices. A federal law passed in 2019 prohibits the breeding or entertainment use of whales, dolphins, and porpoises. Exporting these animals requires special permits, which the fisheries minister can grant under specific circumstances.
Animal advocates emphasize the importance of ensuring that the mammals transferred from Marineland are not used for performances or breeding in their new habitats. The possibility of the animals being relocated to a proposed whale sanctuary in Nova Scotia remains uncertain due to ongoing construction and funding challenges.
Regarding the transfer of the animals to U.S. facilities, a government source highlighted that the animals would be subject to the laws of each state, with some states permitting breeding and performances. SeaWorld, with locations in Texas, California, and Florida, offers interactions with belugas and dolphins along with dolphin shows.
Former Marineland trainer Kristy Burgess supports the relocation plan, expressing confidence in the facilities proposed in the U.S. She believes that safeguards will be in place to protect the marine mammals in their new environment. Burgess stressed the urgency of the situation, given Marineland’s threat to euthanize the animals if relocation efforts are not approved by a certain deadline.