Animal Justice has urged Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) to launch an investigation into the death of Peekachu, a 23-year-old beluga whale from Marineland in Niagara Falls, Ontario, at a Chicago aquarium. The national animal advocacy organization is also calling for a suspension of the ongoing transfer of marine mammals from the closed theme park until the investigation is concluded.
Peekachu was transported to Shedd Aquarium on August 13 and passed away on August 25. Kaitlyn Mitchell, the legal advocacy director of Animal Justice, has written to Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson requesting that DFO determine how Peekachu was permitted for transport despite apparent health issues.
According to a source, assessments of the whales’ health by a certified Canadian veterinarian were mandatory before the relocation. Shedd Aquarium revealed that Peekachu was dehydrated and had a poor appetite before her sudden death, with a necropsy underway.
DFO has stated that it took “reasonable steps” to ensure the safety of the whales during the relocation process. This included issuing necessary permits and authorizations following health assessments for each whale. Marineland had planned to relocate a total of 30 belugas and four dolphins due to financial constraints, with the remaining six belugas being the last captive whales in Canada.
Naomi Rose, a marine mammal biology scientist, supported Animal Justice’s call for an investigation, expressing concerns over the welfare of the remaining whales. She criticized Marineland for neglecting the well-being of the belugas and warned of potential additional deaths among the relocated whales.
Rose highlighted the stress and potential health risks associated with transporting belugas, especially those already compromised by living conditions. She emphasized the need for accountability and proper handling of the whales during the relocation process to prevent further tragedies.
The relocation of the belugas to various facilities has raised concerns about the separation and stress imposed on the animals. While there are challenges in finding suitable homes for the belugas, Rose believes that sending them to a sanctuary would be a more appropriate solution, despite Marineland’s objections.
