Animal Justice has called on Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) to launch an inquiry into the passing of Peekachu, a 23-year-old beluga whale from Marineland in Niagara Falls, Ontario, at a Chicago aquarium. The national animal rights advocacy group is also urging DFO to suspend the ongoing transfer of marine mammals from the closed theme park until a thorough investigation is conducted.
Peekachu was transferred to Shedd Aquarium on August 13 and sadly passed away on August 25. Kaitlyn Mitchell, the legal advocacy director of Animal Justice, has written a letter to Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson, requesting DFO to ascertain how Peekachu was cleared for transport despite apparent health issues.
According to a source, health evaluations by an accredited Canadian veterinarian were mandatory before the relocation. Shedd Aquarium reported that Peekachu suffered from dehydration and poor appetite before her sudden demise, with a necropsy currently underway.
DFO has stated that all necessary measures were taken to ensure the safety of the whales during the relocation process. This included reviewing the transportation plan, issuing CITES permits, and conducting individual health assessments for each whale before authorizing their transfer under the Fisheries Act.
In response to Peekachu’s death, Mitchell’s letter demands that the transportation of the remaining six belugas, the last captive whales in Canada, be paused until the investigation concludes and confirms the other whales’ fitness for travel to their new destinations.
Concerns have been raised by Naomi Rose, a senior scientist specializing in marine mammal biology, regarding the stress and potential risks faced by belugas during transport. She supports Animal Justice’s call for an investigation and criticized Marineland for neglecting responsibility towards the whales’ well-being.
The fate of the remaining belugas and dolphins from Marineland is uncertain, with ongoing debates about their relocation to different facilities. Rose emphasized the importance of ensuring the whales’ safety and well-being during the transfer process and questioned the suitability of current relocation plans.
The situation surrounding the Marineland whales remains complex, with conflicting opinions on the best course of action. As the investigation into Peekachu’s death continues, the welfare of the remaining belugas and dolphins remains a critical issue that requires careful consideration and action.