Crisis at Marineland: 30 Beluga Whales Face Euthanasia Amid Controversy

Sun Oct 19 2025 17:42:50 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Beluga whales at Marineland in Ontario are in grave danger as the park faces financial bankruptcy. With calls for intervention from animal welfare organizations, advocates fear for the future of these marine mammals.

Thirty beluga whales at Ontario's Marineland could soon face euthanasia due to the park's financial struggles and failed attempts to secure their relocation. Advocates urge government intervention to protect the whales, as debates continue around their care and the legitimacy of the park's threats. Despite mixed opinions on potential solutions, the urgency to find a suitable home for the whales remains critical.

For decades, Marineland was a destination for Canadian children and their parents who wanted an up-close look at ocean-life near Niagara Falls. But behind the aquatic-themed roller coasters and dolphin performances was a dark history of documented mistreatment of animals and lingering financial problems.

Ontario's Animal Welfare Services has conducted multiple investigations over the past several years, visiting the park more than 200 times since 2020, according to CBC News. Amid financial struggles, the park has been trying to get permission to sell 30 beluga whales to China. When their permits were denied, the park said it may have to euthanise the whales.

Now advocates, experts, and officials are looking for ways to save the whales - though few agree on one solution, and some say Marineland's threats to kill its whales are all talk.

The massive aquatic park, started by John and Marie Holer in 1961, sits on over 1,000 acres (400 ha) of prime Ontario real estate. But what was once a beloved attraction has faced growing scrutiny over its care for animals. In 2019, Canada passed a bill making it illegal to hold a whale, dolphin or porpoise captive.

Attendance at the park has drastically declined, and this spring it did not open to tourists, as it usually did. Many assume bankruptcy is inevitable. Niagara Falls mayor Jim Diodati remarked on the dire situation, stating, Unfortunately, they're telling us they're burning the furniture to heat the house. There's no money. Park officials admit they cannot afford to continue caring for the animals, prompting them to seek new homes for the whales.

The whales were initially intended to be sent to a theme park in Zhuhai, China, but Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson denied Marineland's request, citing concerns for their treatment. Meanwhile, the park shocked many with its mention of euthanasia, drawing ire from animal welfare advocates.

As discussions about the whales' future unfold, there’s increasing pressure for the provincial government to intervene and secure the well-being of these animals. Organizations like the Whale and Dolphin Conservation have called for independent veterinary assessments and for the whales to be sent to a sanctuary in Nova Scotia, but logistics and timing present challenges.

Phil Demers, a former Marineland employee, emphasized the need for urgent action. These animals need to be out of those waters, yesterday, he stated. With time limited, stakeholders are racing against the clock to find a resolution that ensures a better future for the beluga whales.