Conditional Approval for Marineland's Beluga Whales Export to the U.S.

On January 26, 2026, Canada's Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson conditionally approved the export of 30 beluga whales and four dolphins from Marineland, a defunct amusement park in Niagara Falls, Ontario, to marine facilities in the United States. This decision came after Marineland threatened to euthanize the animals if export permits were not granted by January 30. Thompson described the meeting with Marineland officials as "constructive," emphasizing that her focus has been on the best interests of the whales.

Captive beluga whales threatened with euthanasia granted last minute reprieve after Canadian government approves export to USCanada conditionally approves plan to move Marineland's beluga whales to U.S., saving them from euthanasiaOttawa gives conditional approval for Marineland to export remaining belugas to U.S.Marineland gets ‘conditional approval’ from Ottawa to ship 30 belugas, 4 dolphins to U.S.Canadian Beluga Whales Could Find New Homes in United StatesAmerican aquariums say they are working to provide future for Marineland’s belugasCanadian beluga whales could find new homes in the US

Founded in 1961, Marineland was once a popular tourist destination, featuring various marine and land animals. However, the park closed to the public in 2024 amid financial difficulties and allegations of animal abuse. Since 2019, 20 whales, including one killer whale and 19 belugas, have died at the facility. Marineland's financial struggles led it to seek emergency funding from the Canadian government, which was denied. The park had previously attempted to export the whales to Chimelong Ocean Kingdom in China, but this request was rejected due to concerns about continued captivity.

American aquariums say they are working to provide future for Marineland’s belugasCaptive beluga whales threatened with euthanasia granted last minute reprieve after Canadian government approves export to USCanadian Beluga Whales Could Find New Homes in United StatesCanada conditionally approves plan to move Marineland's beluga whales to U.S., saving them from euthanasiaCanadian beluga whales could find new homes in the USOttawa gives conditional approval for Marineland to export remaining belugas to U.S.

Marineland is in discussions with four U.S. institutions: Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta, Mystic Aquarium in Connecticut, and SeaWorld, which operates multiple locations across the country. While these institutions have expressed interest, they caution that any agreement is still premature and will require thorough assessments of the animals' health and welfare.

American aquariums say they are working to provide future for Marineland’s belugas

Animal rights advocates have criticized Marineland's ultimatum to euthanize the whales, labeling it as a disturbing tactic. Camille Labchuk, executive director of Animal Justice, stated that the minister had little choice but to approve the export due to the park's threats. She emphasized the need for individual health assessments for each whale and dolphin before any transfer and insisted that breeding must not occur in the U.S., as it is illegal in Canada under the 2019 "Free Willy Law."

Canadian Beluga Whales Could Find New Homes in United States

In her statement, Minister Thompson reiterated her commitment to the welfare of the whales, stating, "My focus throughout has been the best interest of the whales, and that is what has guided this decision." Marineland expressed gratitude for the government's support, stating, "We extend our gratitude to the minister and the Canadian government for prioritizing the lives of these remarkable marine mammals."

Canadian Beluga Whales Could Find New Homes in United States

The final export permits will be issued once Marineland provides the required information, including health assessments for each animal. The urgency of the situation has prompted calls for swift action to ensure the whales are relocated safely and humanely, as their survival now hinges on the successful execution of this plan.

Canadian beluga whales could find new homes in the US

While Marineland's representatives have indicated that euthanasia remains an option if permits are not granted, the exact timeline and conditions for the transfer of the whales to U.S. facilities remain unclear. Additionally, the potential for a sanctuary in Nova Scotia, which would allow for a more natural environment for the whales, has not materialized, leaving the animals' future uncertain.

Canadian Beluga Whales Could Find New Homes in United States

• “My focus throughout has been the best interest of the whales, and that is what has guided this decision,” — Joanne Thompson, Fisheries Minister

Canadian beluga whales could find new homes in the US

• “Earlier today, Minister Joanne Thompson notified Marineland of her support for the relocation of our remaining beluga whales and dolphins to proposed facilities in the United States. We extend our gratitude to the Minister and the Canadian government for prioritizing the lives of these remarkable marine mammals.” — Marineland Spokesperson

Captive beluga whales threatened with euthanasia granted last minute reprieve after Canadian government approves export to US

• “Given Marineland’s appalling threat to execute the 30 belugas and four dolphins, the minister had little choice but to offer these conditional approvals. However, we fully expect that the Minister will require individual health assessments for each whale and dolphin to determine whether they are healthy enough to be moved.” — Camille Labchuk, Executive Director of Animal Justice

Captive beluga whales threatened with euthanasia granted last minute reprieve after Canadian government approves export to US