Timeline: How 30 beluga whales journeyed from a closed Canada marine park to 5 new aquariums

Rescue and relocation efforts began in July to move 30 beluga whales from Marineland Canada, which closed permanently in 2024. The plan is coordinated by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and NOAA Fisheries, along with the aquariums receiving the animals. Twenty-eight whales will stay in the U.S. across four aquariums, while two will go to an aquarium in Spain. As of the latest report, at least 22 whales have arrived. SeaWorld San Antonio, in Texas, is set to receive 13 belugas; at least nine have already relocated and are not yet on public display. Seven females and two males are in SeaWorld’s care, and the remaining males’ arrival timing was not announced. Shedd Aquarium in Chicago plans to receive 10 whales and announced the death of “Peekachu,” a 23-year-old female, after tests for dehydration concerns based on blood samples taken before death. Two remaining whales will be moved depending on needs and timing.