Peekachu, a beluga whale formerly housed at Marineland in Niagara Falls, Ontario, passed away at the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago. The 23-year-old female beluga was part of a group of eight belugas that were recently transferred to Shedd. Described as “unique” by the aquarium due to an international rescue effort, Peekachu, despite being blind in one eye and smaller than other whales, managed to adapt well to her new environment.
Initially showing signs of progress by consuming squid, herring, and capelin, Peekachu later experienced a decline in appetite, leading to a diagnosis of dehydration through a blood test. Despite efforts to provide medical treatment and fluids, Peekachu suddenly passed away. A necropsy is currently being conducted to determine the cause of death.
Marineland expressed sadness over the loss of Peekachu but reassured the public that the remaining whales under their care at Shedd are receiving top-notch treatment. Federal Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson extended condolences, acknowledging the challenging situation and commending the efforts of rescue organizations involved in the relocation process.
In a separate development, four dolphins (Echo, Lida, Marina, and Tsunami) departed Marineland for their new home in Spain, marking the end of captive dolphins in Canada. Animal advocacy groups, such as Animal Justice, have raised concerns about the well-being of these animals during transportation, emphasizing the risks associated with moving unhealthy marine mammals.
The ongoing relocation of belugas and dolphins from Marineland to various facilities in the United States and Spain comes as Marineland faces financial challenges and regulatory hurdles regarding animal captivity laws. Despite initial plans to transfer the animals to China being blocked, alternative arrangements with American and Spanish aquariums have been made to ensure the welfare of the remaining belugas and dolphins.
The situation surrounding the relocation of marine animals from Marineland continues to draw attention and scrutiny from animal welfare advocates and government officials, highlighting the complexities and ethical considerations involved in managing captive marine species.
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