Two former beluga whales from Marineland were found to be ill upon their recent arrival at Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, based on post-mortem examinations. Peekachu, aged 23, and Rain, aged 20, were part of a relocation operation involving 30 belugas and four dolphins from Niagara Falls, Ont., to various aquariums in the U.S. and Spain. Preliminary medical reports from Shedd Aquarium revealed chronic gastrointestinal disease as a significant factor in the deaths of the two whales.
The examinations also uncovered foreign objects in the stomachs of the female belugas, including bird feathers, sticks, and rocks in Peekachu, and small bits of potentially paint-like material in Rain. Shedd Aquarium stated that the presence of these foreign materials was not directly linked to their deaths. Additionally, there was no evidence of communicable diseases based on the initial findings.
According to Shedd, the materials found in the belugas’ digestive tracts were likely present before their rescue, indicating that they did not ingest them during their time at the aquarium. The aquarium emphasized that the foreign materials were not the primary cause of their passing. However, the necropsy results for another deceased beluga, Osiris, are still pending.
A statement from the office of Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson highlighted concerns over the welfare of the belugas before their transfer. It mentioned the need for better care and attention to their health, expressing gratitude to the professionals involved in the relocation operation for ensuring a dignified transition for the whales.
Marineland, which faced financial challenges leading to the relocation of the animals, expressed sadness over the deaths of Peekachu and Rain. The park acknowledged the concerns raised by authorities regarding the whales’ health and reiterated that the Department of Fisheries and Oceans had no direct role in the animals’ care while at Marineland.
Animal welfare advocates, including Camille Labchuk of Animal Justice, questioned the health status of the belugas prior to their transfer. Labchuk emphasized the importance of ensuring the well-being of the whales before relocation to prevent further fatalities. She criticized the lack of proactive measures to improve the health of the animals while they were at Marineland.
The ongoing investigations aim to shed light on the circumstances leading to the deaths of the belugas and address any potential issues related to their care and well-being. Shedd Aquarium emphasized the need for continuous support and improvement in the care of the relocated animals as the investigation progresses.
