Marineland beluga dies at U.S. aquarium weeks after transfer

One of the beluga whales transported from Marineland to the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago has passed away weeks after her arrival. Peekachu, a 23-year-old female beluga, died suddenly on Tuesday. The aquarium described her as unique due to being blind in one eye and being one of the smaller whales in the group of eight transported. Despite the potential challenges, Peekachu quickly socialized and acclimated to her new habitat, consuming squid, herring, and capelin provided by the caretakers.

However, she experienced a decline in health in recent days, with staff noting she was not eating her full diet. Blood tests revealed she was dehydrated and required supportive care. Peekachu passed away suddenly that evening, and a necropsy will determine the cause of her death. The aquarium is awaiting the results and will share them once available.

The transportation of seven belugas from Marineland to various U.S. and Spanish aquariums was part of a rescue deal approved by U.S. authorities. Shedd Aquarium acknowledged the transition would be challenging but emphasized that rescue operations are a gradual process. Federal Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson expressed condolences but reiterated her confidence in the aquarium's and other facilities' ability to care for the rescued whales.