Marineland’s belugas are facing perilous conditions due to the park’s deteriorating infrastructure, understaffing, and lack of resources, according to a former beluga trainer. Kristy Burgess, who previously worked at the Niagara Falls-based park, expressed concern over the well-being of the belugas, emphasizing the urgent need to relocate them to safer environments. The park’s recent threat to euthanize its remaining belugas unless emergency funding is secured has been criticized as a manipulative tactic by Burgess.
Burgess, speaking out for the first time about her experiences at Marineland, highlighted the dire state of the belugas’ living conditions. She described the deteriorating pools, Arctic Cove and Friendship Cove, with peeling paint, falling concrete chunks, and rocks breaking off into the water. The malfunctioning water system further compounds the challenges, hindering the park’s ability to provide essential medical care to the whales promptly.
The park’s history of animal deaths, with nineteen belugas, one dolphin, and one killer whale perishing since 2019, has raised concerns about the animals’ welfare. The refusal of export permits by the federal government to transfer the belugas to Chimelong Ocean Kingdom in China has left Marineland struggling financially and exploring drastic measures, including euthanasia.
Despite Burgess’s plea for a reconsideration of the export permit denial, Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson stands by the decision, emphasizing the importance of upholding laws against captivity. Marineland’s plea for emergency funds to sustain the belugas has put the spotlight on the park’s financial crisis and the ethical dilemma surrounding the animals’ future.
Ontario’s ongoing investigation into Marineland’s compliance with animal welfare laws has revealed persistent issues, including concerns about water quality, maintenance, and record-keeping. The province’s involvement in overseeing animal welfare standards adds another layer to the complex situation facing Marineland.
Burgess shed light on the individual belugas at Marineland, such as Xena, the matriarch, and Xavier, described as the “nerd” of the pod. She emphasized the social dynamics and affection among the belugas, pointing out the challenges posed by Ottawa’s ban on breeding, which led to separations and behavioral issues among the whales.
As Marineland grapples with its uncertain future and mounting pressure to address the belugas’ well-being, Burgess’s revelations underscore the urgency of finding sustainable solutions for the animals. The park’s fate and the welfare of its remaining belugas hang in the balance, prompting calls for decisive actions from authorities and advocates alike.