Peekachu, a female beluga whale previously housed at Marineland in Niagara Falls, Ontario, passed away at the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago. The 23-year-old beluga was part of a group of eight belugas that were relocated to Shedd two weeks ago as part of an international rescue effort. Despite being blind in one eye and one of the smaller whales, Peekachu adapted well to her new environment and socialized with ease.
Initially showing signs of progress by consuming squid, herring, and capelin provided by caretakers, Peekachu later exhibited a decline in appetite and was diagnosed as dehydrated through a blood test. Efforts to administer medication and fluids were underway when Peekachu suddenly passed away on Tuesday evening. A necropsy is currently being conducted to determine the cause of death.
Marineland expressed sadness over Peekachu’s passing but assured that the remaining whales under their care at Shedd are receiving optimal treatment. Federal Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson extended condolences, emphasizing the significance of providing these animals with a new beginning.
In a separate development, four dolphins named Echo, Lida, Marina, and Tsunami departed Marineland for a new home in Spain, marking Canada’s final captive dolphins. Animal advocacy groups, including Animal Justice, have highlighted the risks associated with transporting these marine mammals, citing previous instances where belugas faced health complications during similar moves.
Despite ongoing concerns, the remaining six belugas at Marineland are slated to be transferred to a U.S. aquarium as part of the park’s relocation of all animals due to financial constraints. Previous attempts to sell the belugas and dolphins to a Chinese aquarium were thwarted by government regulations prohibiting whale and dolphin captivity. Following these setbacks, collaborations with American and Spanish aquariums facilitated the relocation of Marineland’s marine animals to various facilities, including SeaWorld locations and the Georgia Aquarium.
The situation underscores the complexities surrounding captive marine animal management and relocation efforts, with stakeholders advocating for improved welfare practices and careful consideration in future endeavors.