Why are 30 beluga whales being moved from Marineland?

The beluga whales are being moved from Marineland due to concerns over their welfare and a dispute regarding their captivity, following the rejection of a proposal to sell them to China.

What was the outcome of the proposed sale of beluga whales to China?

Canada's federal fisheries minister rejected the plan to sell the belugas to China in October 2025 over fears of continued captivity, which is banned under Canadian law.

What are the challenges in transporting beluga whales?

Transporting beluga whales is a complex logistical feat requiring veterinary clearance, sedation, specialized slings, and steel containers filled with saltwater, all carefully managed to ensure the animals' safety.

Home / Environment / 30 Belugas Become Pawns in Animal Cruelty Row

30 Belugas Become Pawns in Animal Cruelty Row

29 Jan

•

Summary

30 beluga whales and 4 dolphins are to be moved from Marineland.
Canada's minister approved export permits after a deal was reached.
Whales have become a bargaining chip between Marineland and the government.

30 Belugas Become Pawns in Animal Cruelty Row

Thirty beluga whales and four dolphins are to be relocated from Marineland amusement park in Canada, marking the closest all parties have come to a plan for their removal. Canada's federal fisheries minister has reached a tentative agreement on export permits, potentially sending the ailing belugas to four aquariums in the US. This development follows the minister's rejection of Marineland's proposal to sell the whales to China in October 2025, citing concerns about continued captivity, which is banned in Canada. Marineland had responded by threatening to euthanize all 30 belugas.

Moving the whales is described as an immensely complex task. Before transport, veterinarians must clear the cetaceans, and some have recently received medical treatment. According to a former trainer, the animals are "compromised" in captivity, with the Ontario government having previously deemed them "in distress." For those deemed healthy enough, feeding is stopped the night before, and a dose of Valium is administered. They are then guided into a fabric sling, lifted by a crane, and placed in a steel transport box filled with saltwater.