For many years, Marineland has been a popular attraction near Niagara Falls, Ontario, drawing families interested in marine life. However, the park has been under scrutiny due to documented issues regarding animal welfare and financial difficulties. Since 2020, Ontario’s Animal Welfare Services has visited Marineland over 200 times as part of ongoing investigations into the treatment of its animals. This scrutiny has coincided with Marineland’s attempts to sell 30 beluga whales to a theme park in China, a request that was denied, leading the park to suggest it might have to euthanize the whales.
Currently, advocates and officials are exploring options to assist the whales, but consensus on a viable solution is lacking. Marineland, which has been operational since 1961 and stretches across over 1,000 acres, has faced increasing criticism following a bill passed in 2019 that outlawed the captivity of cetaceans in Canada. While this bill provides protections for future animals, it does not extend to those already in captivity, limiting federal intervention.
The provincial animal welfare agency previously determined that all marine life at Marineland was suffering due to poor water quality, though improvements have since been reported. However, challenges persist, including a conviction for neglect concerning other animals at the facility. With declining attendance, Marineland has not opened to tourists this spring and faces potential bankruptcy, prompting discussions about finding new homes for the whales.
Some advocates urge the provincial government to intervene, as the Provincial Animal Welfare Services Act allows for the care of animals in distress. Additionally, there is a push for independent veterinary assessments to ensure the well-being of each whale. Although the Whale Sanctuary Project in Nova Scotia is a potential option, it is not currently equipped to accommodate the whales. The situation remains fluid, highlighting the need for a collaborative approach to ensure the welfare of the animals involved.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c0kn6x711y2o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss