Shuttered Marineland Threatens to Euthanize 30 Belugas Without Federal Aid

In a concerning development, the shuttered Marineland amusement park and aquarium in Niagara Falls, Ontario has reportedly threatened to euthanize its remaining 30 beluga whales unless the Canadian government provides them with financial assistance. Marineland, which closed its doors to the public in September 2024 after 60 years of operation, has been attempting to sell its animals since then.

However, the park has now notified the Canadian government that it is in a "critical financial state" and cannot continue to provide adequate care for the belugas. Marineland has claimed that the euthanasia of the whales would be a "direct consequence" of the government's decision not to approve the export permits necessary to sell the animals to a theme park in China.

This latest development comes after years of allegations of animal mistreatment at Marineland, including the deaths of 20 whales since 2019. The Canadian government has already denied Marineland's request to sell the belugas, citing concerns about further mistreatment of the animals.

The situation has sparked an ethical dilemma, with animal welfare advocates condemning Marineland's threat as "morally reprehensible" and arguing that euthanasia should only be considered as a last resort when it is in the best interest of the animals. The government, on the other hand, has maintained that it is Marineland's responsibility to ensure the well-being of the whales, not the government's.