Ontario Premier Doug Ford has been made aware of the recent deaths of a beluga whale and a harbour seal at Marineland. The death of the beluga marks the 20th whale fatality at the Niagara Falls, Ont., attraction since 2019, consisting of 19 belugas and one killer whale. Marineland has been closed to the public since last summer and is currently in the process of potentially selling the park.
According to sources familiar with the situation, the beluga whale’s death occurred following a break-in by trespassers at the park in mid-August. The intruders accessed Friendship Cove, where the male belugas are housed. The disturbance caused the younger belugas to attack an older beluga, resulting in the older whale’s death despite efforts by Marineland staff to save it.
There are believed to be 30 belugas remaining at Marineland, making them the last captive whales in Canada. Phil Demers, a former Marineland trainer turned critic, expressed concern, stating that the situation is deteriorating for the animals.
Marineland has not provided comments on the recent animal deaths or the park’s status. However, Demers revealed that Ford expressed interest in assisting the remaining animals during a recent conversation. Ford discussed potential actions, including the idea of taking over the park to aid the animals and exploring options for relocation.
The federal ban on whale and dolphin captivity poses challenges for relocating the animals. Despite efforts to move some animals, including penguins to the Saint Louis Zoo, the belugas, dolphins, seals, sea lions, bears, and deer remain at Marineland. The province is working with marine mammal experts to find suitable solutions for the animals.
Marineland has faced scrutiny over its animal welfare practices, with the provincial government issuing multiple orders to address concerns. The park’s closure and ongoing animal welfare issues have sparked calls for government intervention to ensure the safety and well-being of the remaining animals.