Another Marineland whale dies at Shedd Aquarium in Chicago

Another beluga, named Caspian, has died at the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, marking the sixth animal from the now-closed Marineland in Niagara Falls, Ontario to perish after a mass relocation. The 27-year-old female beluga struggled despite medical efforts, succumbing to the aquarium on Wednesday. Four other belugas and one dolphin from Marineland have also succumbed to their fate since their relocation.

Caspian's deteriorating health was attributed to improper eating habits and abnormal electrolyte levels in her blood. Further tests revealed dangerously acidic blood, providing insight into her severe condition. The aquarium's veterinary team conducted life support for nearly four hours before her demise. Necropsies on two other Marineland whales, Peekachu and Rain, revealed chronic pre-existing diseases.

The relocation, a joint effort by Shedd Aquarium and other U.S. and Spanish institutions, aimed to alleviate Marineland's financial struggles, which had rendered it unable to sustain the remaining captive whales and dolphins. Unfortunate outcomes from the move included a beluga named Jelly Bean and a dolphin named Echo, who died at Oceanografic Valencia in Spain.