Marineland in Niagara Falls is home to the biggest group of beluga whales kept in captivity anywhere in Canada. Getty Images
A well-known marine park in Ontario has warned it may have to euthanise 30 beluga whales after the federal government blocked their transfer to China. Marineland, which has faced years of criticism over animal care and financial problems, had planned to send the whales to Chimelong Ocean Kingdom, a theme park in Zhuhai.
Officials denied the park’s export permit last week, citing concerns that the whales would continue to be used for public entertainment. The Fisheries Minister said such a move would violate Canada’s animal welfare laws, which ban the use of whales and dolphins for shows.
Funding Request Rejected
After the export was denied, Marineland asked the federal government for financial help to care for the animals. The Fisheries Minister, Joanne Thompson, rejected the request, calling it “inappropriate.”
Without that support, Marineland said it could not afford to care for the belugas and warned that euthanasia may be the only option. The park called the situation “a direct consequence of the minister’s decision.”
Thompson responded that Marineland’s lack of a backup plan did not make it the government’s responsibility to take over the animals’ care. She said she could not approve an export that would “perpetuate the treatment these belugas have endured.”
Long History of Concerns
Marineland’s treatment of animals has been under public scrutiny for years. In 2020, an official investigation found that several marine animals at the park were in distress. The report revealed that 12 whales had died over a two-year period.
Since 2019, at least 20 whales have died at the facility, including five this year. Visitor numbers have dropped sharply, leaving the park in serious financial trouble. Earlier this year, Marineland secured court approval to remortgage its property to fund the relocation of its remaining animals while searching for a buyer.
Outrage From Animal Rights Groups
Animal welfare advocates have condemned Marineland’s statement about possibly euthanising the whales. Camille Labchuk, executive director of Animal Justice, said the park has “a moral obligation to fund the future care of these animals.” She called the threat to kill them “reprehensible.”
World Animal Protection also urged the Ontario government to intervene. The group said provincial officials “must show leadership and ensure these animals receive the best possible care.”
A Struggle Over Responsibility
The dispute highlights a growing debate over how Canada handles marine animals in captivity. Since 2019, laws have tightened to protect whales and dolphins, banning their use in entertainment shows and restricting exports.
Marineland’s uncertain future has left the fate of its remaining belugas hanging in the balance. While animal advocates push for the government to rescue them, the park insists it cannot continue without major financial help.
For now, the 30 belugas remain at the park, caught between legal limits, public outrage, and financial hardship.
