Four more belugas arrive at Chicago aquarium from shuttered Canadian theme park

CHICAGO (AP) — Four additional belugas have been transported to Chicago's Shedd Aquarium, joining a group of four belugas that arrived in July from Marineland, a Canadian theme park. These eight belugas are part of a larger group of 30 whales and four dolphins that will be relocated from Marineland following the Canadian government's approval of a rescue plan.

The whales' relocation aims to prevent potential mass euthanasia, which has affected 20 whales — including 19 belugas and one killer whale — at Marineland since 2019.

The whales are transported in custom-built slings and temperature-controlled containers. Prior to their arrival, experts visited Marineland to familiarize themselves with the whales' previous caretakers and reviewed years of health records. Shedd Aquarium director Charlie Jacobsma described the rescue as a "very complex and unprecedented effort."

The whales spend time in the same area as three existing belugas, forming affiliations and exchanging sounds. Belugas are highly social animals, and their interactions offer a special experience for aquarium staff. Lead veterinarian Dr. Karisa Tang reported that the whales are adjusting to their new environment gradually, closely monitored for changes in their health, interactions, and mood. Tang emphasized the unique personalities of belugas and the joy of working with them daily.

Under the rescue plan, the belugas and dolphins will find new homes at five marine parks: Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta, SeaWorld locations in San Antonio and San Diego, and Oceanografic in Valencia, Spain.