Animal Justice has urged Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) to launch an investigation into the recent death of Peekachu, a 23-year-old beluga whale that was transported from Marineland in Niagara Falls, Ont., to a Chicago aquarium. The national animal law advocacy organization has also called for a pause in the ongoing relocation of marine mammals from the closed theme park until a thorough investigation is conducted.
Peekachu, who arrived at Shedd Aquarium on August 13, passed away on August 25. Concerns have been raised regarding how Peekachu was cleared for transport despite apparent health issues, prompting Animal Justice’s legal advocacy director, Kaitlyn Mitchell, to write to Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson seeking an examination into the approval process.
The transportation of the remaining six belugas, the last captive whales in Canada, has been requested to be halted until Peekachu’s death is properly investigated and the health of the other whales is verified for the journey to their new destinations. Mitchell emphasized the stressful and potentially hazardous nature of cetacean transport, particularly for animals already compromised in health.
Marineland had initially planned to send its belugas and dolphins to China, but after the move was blocked by Ottawa due to legislative constraints, the park faced financial troubles and sought help from American and Spanish aquariums. The belugas have since been relocated to various facilities in the U.S., including SeaWorld locations and the Georgia Aquarium.
Naomi Rose, a marine mammal expert, echoed Animal Justice’s call for an investigation and criticized Marineland for neglecting responsibility towards the wellbeing of the whales. She expressed fears of additional whale deaths, citing concerns over storage disease, a genetic condition exacerbated by stress. Rose highlighted the distressing process of whale relocation, emphasizing the challenges faced by these intelligent and social animals.
The ongoing debate surrounding the fate of Marineland’s belugas has sparked mixed opinions, with Rose underscoring the complexities and uncertainties in determining the best course of action for the animals. Despite differing viewpoints, the focus remains on ensuring the welfare and safety of the belugas amidst the evolving circumstances.