Animal Justice is urging Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) to look into the passing of Peekachu, a 23-year-old beluga from Marineland in Niagara Falls, Ont., at a Chicago aquarium. The national animal law advocacy group is also requesting DFO to pause the ongoing transfer of marine mammals from the closed theme park until an investigation is finished.
Peekachu was brought to Shedd Aquarium on Aug. 13 and passed away on Aug. 25. Kaitlyn Mitchell, the legal advocacy director of Animal Justice, has written to Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson, questioning how Peekachu was allowed for transportation despite apparent health issues.
Prior to the move, the whales had to undergo health assessments by an accredited Canadian veterinarian. Shedd Aquarium mentioned that Peekachu was dehydrated and had a poor appetite, and efforts to provide medical care were unsuccessful.
DFO stated that necessary steps were taken to ensure the whales’ safety, including reviewing the transportation plan, issuing permits, and conducting individual health assessments. Mitchell’s letter calls for halting the transfer of the remaining six belugas until a thorough investigation is conducted into Peekachu’s death.
Marineland had initially planned to send its belugas and dolphins to China, but the move was stopped by Ottawa due to a law prohibiting whale and dolphin captivity. The park then sought help from American and Spanish aquariums, with the belugas being relocated to various locations including SeaWorld.
Concerns have been raised by Naomi Rose, a marine mammal biologist, regarding the well-being of the whales during transport and separation. She supports Animal Justice’s call for an investigation and expressed worries about more deaths among the relocated whales due to stress-related conditions. Rose highlighted the challenges faced by the whales during transportation and criticized Marineland for not ensuring their safety and well-being.
The relocation of the Marineland whales has sparked debate, with conflicting opinions on the best course of action for their welfare. The fate of the remaining belugas remains uncertain as stakeholders grapple with finding a suitable solution that prioritizes the animals’ health and safety.
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