TORONTO—The federal government’s reported endorsement of plans to transfer Marineland’s 30 remaining beluga whales to Oceanogràfic València in Spain and four possible US locations raises serious concerns about the health and welfare of animals who have already suffered years of neglect.
“We are deeply concerned that Canada has endorsed the plan to transfer these vulnerable animals even though their health has not yet been independently assessed. Long-distance transport is incredibly dangerous for belugas. Independent experts must evaluate these animals before any transfer takes place to ensure they are not being moved with pre-existing health conditions, something that occurred when Marineland previously transferred whales to Mystic Aquarium in Connecticut. Three out of five of those belugas died,” said Kaitlyn Mitchell, lawyer and Director of Legal Advocacy at Animal Justice.
“For years, these animals have languished in decrepit, deteriorating tanks while Ontario’s animal welfare agency failed to take meaningful action. The sad reality is that transfer to other aquariums is likely the least worst option for many of these whales and dolphins, but Canada should be prioritizing sending as many of the animals as possible to sanctuaries. Seaside sanctuaries, like the Whale Sanctuary Project being constructed in Nova Scotia, will allow these intelligent, social animals to enjoy the care and natural environment they deserve.”
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