Canada Aquarium threatens to euthanize 30 belugas due to lack of funding (5 photos)

Marineland Park in Niagara Falls, which closed last year, is being forced to euthanize its whales due to a lack of funding and a government ban on transferring beluga whales to China's Chimelong Ocean Kingdom.





Fisheries Minister Joanna Thompson denied permission to export the whales, citing the fact that they would remain in captivity and be used for entertainment. However, park officials stated that they no longer have the funds to care for them.

"If we don't hear back by that date, we'll have no choice." "We will consider our requests denied," the aquarium's management warned in a letter to officials. They also emphasized that the animals' deaths would be "a direct result of the minister's decision."



Marineland closed in 2024 due to declining attendance and allegations of animal cruelty for failing to provide proper care for the belugas.

Thompson responded: "The fact that Marineland is not seeking a viable alternative does not make the Canadian government responsible for covering the costs."





The official emphasized that her decision is consistent with the 2019 "Free Willy" law, which prohibits the breeding, captivity, or use of whales and dolphins for entertainment.

The law limited the park's attendance and forced it to close after 60 years of operation. Marineland has also faced criticism and protests over animal cruelty. Since 2019, the park has lost 20 whales, including one orca and 19 belugas.

In August 2024, the park was fined for keeping three black bears in cramped cages.



Canadian law also requires a special federal permit for the export of marine animals.

"Threats to kill animals without emergency funding are completely unacceptable," said Toronto-based activist Melissa Matlow. "We must find solace in the knowledge that this is the last generation of whales and dolphins destined to suffer in Canada."