Marineland trying to get permit to ship remaining belugas to U.S., report says

A contentious situation is unfolding at the former Marineland theme park in Niagara Falls, Ontario, as the park seeks a resolution for its remaining marine mammals. Marineland has presented a plan to the Canadian federal government to transfer its captive whales and dolphins to several institutions in the United States, but has simultaneously issued a warning: if export permits are not swiftly approved, the park may proceed with the euthanasia of 30 belugas and four dolphins.

A Last-Ditch Effort for Marineland’s Marine Mammals

According to sources within Marineland, the proposal was delivered to Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson on Wednesday. Marineland characterized the plan as an “urgent rescue solution” and stated that the Minister expressed support and pledged a quick review of the export permit applications. The park asserts that the survival of these animals is now dependent on the Minister’s prompt action.

Did You Know? Since 2019, twenty whales – including one killer whale and nineteen belugas – have died at Marineland, according to records compiled by The Canadian Press.

The proposed transfer would involve sending the whales and dolphins to four U.S. aquariums: SeaWorld, Georgia Aquarium, Shedd Aquarium, and Mystic Aquarium. Veterinarians from these institutions reportedly visited Marineland last week to assess the health of the animals. This move is linked to a pending deal to sell the Marineland property for residential and commercial development, contingent upon the removal of all animals.

Previous Attempts and Legal Context

This latest development follows a previous attempt by Marineland to relocate its belugas to Chimelong Ocean Kingdom in China, which was denied by Minister Thompson. The denial was based on concerns about the whales potentially being subjected to performing in captivity, a practice restricted by the 2019 “Free Willy” bill. While the law generally prohibits whale and dolphin captivity, Marineland’s existing animals were grandfathered in, and the Minister retains the authority to approve exports if deemed to be in the animals’ best interest.

The “Free Willy” bill also banned breeding, leading Marineland to separate male and female belugas. The park previously requested federal funding when it appeared a solution would not materialize, threatening euthanasia if assistance wasn’t provided. That deadline passed without action from the government.

Expert Insight: The situation highlights the complex ethical and logistical challenges inherent in managing captive marine mammal populations, particularly when financial viability and legal restrictions intersect. The park’s stated need to sell the land to resolve its financial issues creates a particularly acute pressure point, raising the stakes for both the animals and the government.

Currently, all 30 belugas remain alive, though two males are receiving ongoing medical attention. Marineland has previously transferred animals to Mystic Aquarium, but those transfers were not without incident, as two belugas died within two years of relocation, with Mystic attributing the deaths to pre-existing conditions.

What Could Happen Next

If Minister Thompson approves the export permits, the whales and dolphins could be transported to the designated U.S. aquariums. However, the process of relocation is complex and carries inherent risks for the animals. It is also likely that Marineland will proceed with the sale of its land.

Should the permits be denied, Marineland has indicated it may carry out its threat to euthanize the belugas and dolphins. This outcome could trigger further legal challenges and public outcry. Alternatively, the park could seek other potential buyers or explore alternative solutions, though its options appear increasingly limited.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the “Free Willy” bill?

The “Free Willy” bill, passed in 2019, banned whale and dolphin captivity in Canada with a limited exemption for scientific research. It also forbade breeding and importing or exporting marine mammals, though the Minister can grant exceptions if it is deemed to be in the animals’ best interest.

Where does Marineland propose to send the whales and dolphins?

Marineland has proposed sending the whales and dolphins to four institutions in the United States: SeaWorld, Georgia Aquarium, Shedd Aquarium, and Mystic Aquarium.

What is Marineland’s stated reason for seeking to move the animals?

Marineland states that it has a deal to sell its land for residential and commercial development, but the deal is contingent on the removal of all animals from the property.

Given the precarious situation, what role do you believe public opinion and international pressure should play in determining the fate of these animals?