Canada Approves Export Of 30 Captive Beluga Whales To U.S. Aquariums — Which Could Include SeaWorld San Diego

Canada’s government gave conditional approval to export 30 beluga whales and 4 dolphins to United States aquariums on Monday. After Marineland in Niagara Falls, Ontario, closed in September 2024, the theme park told Fisheries minister Joanne Thompson that it was running out of money. According to *The Associated Press*, the animals would be euthanized if the minister did not approve export permits by January 30, 2026. “...I provided conditional approval for export permits ,” said Thompson in a statement on Monday. “I will issue the final permits once final required information is received from Marineland.” “My focus throughout has been the best interest of the whales , and that is what has guided this decision.” Marineland is reportedly in discussions with four U.S. aquariums to receive the animals, all of which are accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). They include the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta, Mystic Aquarium in Connecticut, and SeaWorld , which has locations in Orlando, San Antonio, and San Diego. SeaWorld has not yet publicly commented on the possibility of receiving whales or dolphins from Marineland. In October, Marineland attempted to move its belugas to Chimelong Ocean Kingdom in China, which is known for its animal performances. However, Thompson denied the permits, so as to spare them a “return to public entertainment.” Belugas and more at SeaWorld San Diego -------------------------------------- SeaWorld San Diego is about a 2-hour drive from Los Angeles. It’s currently home to 3 beluga whales , named Allua, Klondike, and Oliver, who are kept in the Wild Arctic exhibit . The belugas do not participate in stadium-style shows, but guests can see them from underwater and upper-deck viewing areas. SeaWorld does offer an up-close “Beluga In-Water Interaction” experience , which allows guests to touch and feed the whales under supervision. The theme park has phased out its theatrical animal performances, presenting its public shows now as “educational.” The parks run animal presentations with tricks and behaviors accompanied by commentary. Source: https://secretlosangeles.com/canada-beluga-whales-export-seaworld/