Hundreds of deer and elk at Marineland are in grave danger. According to information provided to Animal Justice by a Marineland employee, the now-for-sale park has begun removing deer and elk from the property and may be sending some of them to slaughterhouses. More than 100 animals have reportedly already been moved, and hundreds of remaining animals are expected to be removed by July 24, 2026.
The employee has also shared disturbing information about the animals’ living conditions, including inadequate veterinary care, deer suffering from lacerations caused by fencing, and injuries resulting from fighting in overcrowded enclosures. Photographs provided to Animal Justice appear to show deer with facial wounds and other injuries.
Transporting Injured & Suffering Animals May Be Illegal
Animal Justice is deeply concerned that some of the deer and elk may be forced onto trucks while they are injured or unfit for travel.
Federal laws place strict restrictions on the transport of unfit or compromised animals. These laws are meant to prevent animals from suffering during loading, transport, and unloading.
Deer and elk are naturally ill-suited for handling and transport. They are easily stressed and are at significant risk of injury or even death when transported, especially when forced into close contact with other frightened animals. These risks may be even more serious for animals who are already injured or in poor condition.
Additionally, according to public reports, the exotic animal business Marineland has turned to in order to transport large numbers of deer has previously been linked to animal-related offences.
Animal Law Enforcement Must Act Now
Ontario’s Animal Welfare Services (AWS) and the CFIA have the authority to investigate. AWS can issue orders to protect these deer and elk, and even provide needed care directly and send Marineland the bill. By using its legal authority to relieve animals’ distress, AWS can also explore humane options for rehoming them.
Animal Justice is calling on AWS and the CFIA to immediately investigate the welfare of the surviving animals at Marineland, and any planned transport, ensure injured animals receive proper care, and take all available steps to prevent further suffering.
