The Big Story Will Marineland actually euthanize 30 beluga whales?
Nov 7, 2025
Liam Casey, a journalist with the Canadian Press, dives into a dire situation involving 30 beluga whales at the shuttered Marineland in Ontario. He details the park's history of animal welfare controversies and financial woes, leading to a disturbing threat of euthanasia. Casey discusses the complexities of moving the whales, including a proposed sanctuary in Nova Scotia and the legal entanglements preventing immediate action. With political fallout and advocacy efforts underway, the future of these majestic creatures remains uncertain.
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Legal Barrier To Exporting The Belugas
- Canada banned new marine mammal captivity in 2019 but grandfathered existing animals at Marineland.
- The federal government blocked exporting the belugas to China because the move would conflict with Canadian law and public policy.
Marineland's Euthanasia Ultimatum
- Marineland warned the federal government it was nearly broke and demanded millions or it would euthanize 30 belugas within days.
- Liam Casey describes receiving and reporting on Marineland's dramatic threat after the China export permit was denied.
High Costs Despite Valuable Real Estate
- Marineland sits on very valuable Niagara Falls land but has had almost no revenue and high operating costs since closing.
- Feeding the belugas reportedly costs about $2 million a month while visitor income has been minimal.