Peekachu, a female beluga whale previously housed at Marineland in Niagara Falls, Ontario, has passed away at the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago. The 23-year-old beluga was one of eight belugas transferred to Shedd two weeks ago as part of an international rescue mission. According to the aquarium, Peekachu, who was blind in one eye and smaller in size, adapted well to her new environment despite her physical limitations.
Initially showing signs of progress by consuming squid, herring, and capelin, Peekachu later experienced a decline in appetite and was diagnosed as dehydrated through a blood test. Despite efforts to provide medical care and fluids, Peekachu died suddenly on Tuesday evening, prompting a necropsy to determine the cause of death.
Marineland expressed sorrow over Peekachu’s passing but assured that the remaining whales under their care at Shedd are receiving optimal treatment. Federal Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson extended condolences, acknowledging the challenges faced by the caretakers and emphasizing the collaborative efforts of Canada’s Accredited Zoos and Aquariums and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums in ensuring the well-being of the belugas.
In a separate development, four dolphins named Echo, Lida, Marina, and Tsunami departed Marineland for a new home in Spain, marking the relocation of Canada’s last captive dolphins. The advocacy director of Animal Justice commented on Peekachu’s death, highlighting the longstanding health issues faced by the belugas and the risks associated with their relocation.
Furthermore, plans are underway to transport the remaining six belugas from Marineland to a U.S. aquarium, as part of the park’s initiative to relocate all marine animals due to financial constraints. Following the prohibition of their sale to China and subsequent collaboration with American and Spanish aquariums, Marineland’s belugas have been transferred to various locations including SeaWorld facilities and the Georgia Aquarium.
The ongoing transition of marine animals from Marineland has drawn attention from animal welfare advocates, who call for improved care standards and a more cautious approach to ensure the well-being of the animals during the relocation process.