Peekachu, a beluga that was recently transferred from Marineland in Niagara Falls, Ontario, has passed away at the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, as confirmed by the facility on Wednesday. This unfortunate event occurred on the same day when two other belugas and four dolphins were in the process of being relocated to Spain.
The 23-year-old female beluga, who was among a group of eight belugas flown to Shedd two weeks ago, was described as “unique” by the aquarium. She had some physical limitations, being blind in one eye and smaller in size, yet she managed to adapt well to her new environment and socialize with ease.
Initially showing signs of progress by consuming squid, herring, and capelin provided by caretakers, Peekachu began experiencing difficulty in eating and was found to be dehydrated following a blood test. Despite efforts to provide medical care and fluids, she passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday evening. A necropsy is currently underway to determine the cause of death.
Marineland expressed sadness over Peekachu’s passing but assured that the remaining whales from their facility are receiving top-notch care at Shedd. Federal Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson extended condolences on the loss and commended the swift action taken by Canada’s Accredited Zoos and Aquariums and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums in ensuring the well-being of the animals during this transition.
The four dolphins, Echo, Lida, Marina, and Tsunami, who departed Marineland for a new home in Spain, mark the last of Canada’s captive dolphins. Animal Justice’s legal advocacy director, Kaitlyn Mitchell, noted the long-standing health issues among the belugas at Marineland and expressed concern over the risks associated with their relocation, citing previous deaths and compromised health conditions.
As the remaining six belugas at Marineland prepare for their move to a U.S. aquarium, the shift of a total of 30 belugas and four dolphins from the facility underscores the urgent need to relocate all animals due to financial constraints faced by Marineland. The park’s attempts to send the animals to China were thwarted by Ottawa, leading to alternative arrangements with American and Spanish aquariums for their relocation.
Efforts to secure the well-being of the marine mammals during these transitions have been met with challenges, emphasizing the importance of ensuring their health and safety throughout the process.
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