Peekachu, a beluga whale previously housed at Marineland in Niagara Falls, Ontario, passed away at the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago. This sad news coincided with the relocation of two other belugas and four dolphins to Spain. Peekachu, a 23-year-old female beluga, was part of a group of eight belugas that were transferred to the Shedd Aquarium two weeks ago as part of an ongoing international rescue operation.

Described as “unique” by the aquarium, Peekachu was blind in one eye and one of the smaller whales. Despite these challenges, she adapted well to her new environment and showed initial signs of progress by consuming squid, herring, and capelin. However, her health deteriorated as she stopped eating well and was found to be dehydrated during a blood test. Tragically, Peekachu passed away suddenly while receiving medical attention, prompting the initiation of a necropsy.

Marineland expressed sorrow over Peekachu’s death but affirmed that the remaining whales under their care at the Shedd Aquarium are receiving optimal treatment. Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson extended her condolences, acknowledging the dedicated efforts of Canada’s Accredited Zoos and Aquariums and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums in facilitating the rescue and relocation of these marine animals.

The four dolphins, Echo, Lida, Marina, and Tsunami, who departed Marineland for Spain, are the last captive dolphins in Canada. The legal advocacy director for Animal Justice expressed sadness over Peekachu’s death, attributing it to the longstanding health issues faced by the belugas. Concerns were raised about the risks associated with transporting these animals, citing previous deaths of belugas exported from Marineland.

Meanwhile, the remaining six belugas at Marineland, the sole captive whales in Canada, are preparing to be transported to a U.S. aquarium as part of Marineland’s efforts to relocate all its animals due to financial constraints. Following the cancellation of a planned transfer to China, the park sought assistance from American and Spanish aquariums to ensure the well-being of its marine mammals. The belugas have been distributed to various facilities, including SeaWorld locations in the United States.

The move of these marine animals signals a significant transition in their lives, emphasizing the importance of ongoing assessment and care to ensure their welfare during this period of change.