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Another six whales being moved out of Marineland, headed to U.S. aquariums

A third batch of whales left Marineland for aquariums south of the border on Wednesday, marking what the park called a "major milestone."

Another six whales being moved out of Marineland, headed to U.S. aquariums

On Wednesday, a third group of whales left Marineland for U.S. aquariums, marking a "major milestone" in the park's efforts to relocate its captive whales. Six beluga whales were moved under gray skies, with specialists transferring them one by one into tanks at the Niagara Falls, Ontario park. The operation began with males Zephyr and Balor, followed by females Caspian, Pikachu, Secord, and Rain (Spurlock). One female was temporarily held back due to a tail injury, but she was cleared for travel after treatment.

The whales were to be transported to Toronto's Pearson airport and flown to Shedd Aquarium in Chicago and Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta. Marineland's adviser, Andrew Burns, reported that the transfers have been "exceptionally well," with no substantial issues and the animals adjusting well to their new homes. Three more moves are planned, including a nighttime flight to Spain for dolphins and two belugas.

Marineland closed its doors to the public in 2024 due to financial struggles. The park has 11 belugas remaining, which the organization hopes to move by the end of the month. If the whales are not relocated, they will be euthanized. Operated for 40 years, Marineland has said it is grateful for the whales' eventual relocation to safe environments.

Written by urgent.news from Global News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.

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