Canada Faces Outcry Over Potential Euthanasia of Beluga Whales

A troubling situation is unfolding in Ontario, Canada, where Marineland of Canada Inc. is considering euthanizing a population of thirty beluga whales. This drastic measure stems from the park’s ongoing financial difficulties, which have left it unable to continue operations without government assistance. Reports from The Guardian indicate that Marineland has accumulated significant debt, and instead of opening its doors this year, it has opted to begin rehoming its animals in preparation for a potential sale.

“The fate of the remaining 30 belugas may not be entirely its fault,”

said a conservationist who has monitored the situation closely. Over the past six years, Marineland has faced severe criticism for the deaths of numerous marine animals, including nineteen belugas and one killer whale, Kiska, who was referred to as the “world’s loneliest Orca” until her passing in 2023.

The rehoming efforts at Marineland intensified in 2023, as the park sought support from the Ontario government. When Marineland identified the Chimelong Ocean Kingdom in China as a suitable relocation facility for the belugas, Joanne Thompson, Canada’s fisheries minister, intervened to block the transfer. She cited compliance with a 2019 marine captivity law, designed to prevent the exploitation of cetaceans, stating that the move would “perpetuate the treatment these belugas have endured.”

The decision to keep the belugas at Marineland raises questions about the rationale behind this policy. The park, which has been criticized for its treatment of animals, remains in a precarious situation, while the government’s criteria for determining what constitutes the “best interest” of the belugas is unclear. Many argue that life in Marineland, which has faced ongoing scrutiny, cannot be deemed preferable to a transfer to a facility that specializes in marine conservation.

Chimelong Ocean Kingdom is recognized for its efforts in breeding and conserving endangered aquatic species, including the threatened Arctic breed of beluga whale. The facility is equipped with advanced resources, including a veterinary hospital and marine rehabilitation lab, in accordance with Chinese wildlife protection laws. Marineland’s management has also noted that Chimelong is reportedly the only facility globally capable of accommodating thirty beluga whales, highlighting the challenges surrounding the proposed whale sanctuary project in Nova Scotia, which has stalled since 2020 due to funding issues.

As of now, the belugas remain in Marineland’s care, but their future hangs in the balance. The situation underscores the complexities of marine conservation, particularly regarding the responsibilities of private facilities and government regulations. As the debate continues, the well-being of these whales is of paramount concern, with many advocates calling for urgent action to secure a more humane outcome for them.