Peekachu, a female beluga that had been relocated from Marineland in Niagara Falls, Ont., to the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, has passed away, the Shedd Aquarium announced on Wednesday. This unfortunate event occurred on the same day when two other belugas and four dolphins were being transported to Spain.
The 23-year-old beluga, part of a group of eight belugas that were flown to Shedd two weeks ago as part of an ongoing international rescue effort, was described as “unique” by the aquarium. Despite being blind in one eye and one of the smaller whales, Peekachu managed to adapt well to her new environment and socialize effectively.
Initially, Peekachu displayed signs of progress by consuming squid, herring, and capelin provided by caretakers. However, her health deteriorated as she began to refuse food, and a subsequent blood test indicated dehydration. Efforts were made to administer medication and fluids, but tragically, Peekachu passed away suddenly on Tuesday evening. A necropsy is currently being conducted to determine the cause of death.
While the news of Peekachu’s death saddened Marineland, they assured that the remaining whales under their care at Shedd are receiving optimal treatment. Federal Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson expressed her condolences and gratitude towards the organizations involved in the rescue mission.
In a separate development, four dolphins (Echo, Lida, Marina, and Tsunami) departed Marineland for a new home in Spain, marking the end of Canada’s captive dolphin era. Animal Justice’s legal advocacy director, Kaitlyn Mitchell, expressed sadness at Peekachu’s death, citing the long-standing health issues faced by the belugas. Mitchell highlighted the risks associated with moving the animals and criticized the handling of their relocation process.
The remaining six belugas at Marineland are scheduled to be transferred to a U.S. aquarium, as part of the park’s initiative to relocate all its animals due to financial constraints. Marineland’s initial attempt to sell the belugas and dolphins to China was blocked by Ottawa, leading to alternative arrangements with American and Spanish aquariums for their relocation.
The saga of Marineland’s animal transfers continues, with a mix of challenges and controversies surrounding the well-being and future of the marine mammals.