Beluga Whale Rescued From Canadian Park Dies at SeaWorld San Diego
Cyprus, a nine-year-old male beluga, is the sixth whale transferred from Marineland of Canada to die.
A nine-year-old male beluga whale named Cyprus, recently transferred from the now-shuttered Marineland of Canada in Ontario, died at SeaWorld San Diego on August 22. The whale had been interacting well with trainers and adjusting to its new environment until it stopped eating on Saturday, according to SeaWorld officials.
Veterinarians and the animal care team examined Cyprus overnight. An ultrasound revealed that the whale's intestinal tract was not functioning normally, indicating a potentially life-threatening condition. Despite efforts, Cyprus could not be saved.
Cyprus was among several beluga whales and dolphins rescued from the bankrupt Marineland of Canada park. The park had cited a financial crisis as the reason for its closure, warning that the animals would face euthanasia if not rehomed. In response, Canada granted export permits for the remaining belugas and dolphins.
This is the sixth whale to die following its transfer from Marineland. Four other beluga whales died at Chicago's Shedd Aquarium, and a fifth beluga, along with a dolphin, died at Oceanogràfic de València in Spain, according to Animal Justice Canada.
SeaWorld is currently caring for 16 belugas transferred from Marineland, with the animals housed in San Antonio and San Diego. The park stated that the other rescued belugas remain in stable health and are under close monitoring as they continue to adjust to their new surroundings.
Beluga whales, which can live up to 80 years, are found in Arctic and sub-Arctic waters and are considered vulnerable to threats such as climate change, disease, and habitat degradation, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Marineland of Canada operated for over 60 years, holding beluga whales, dolphins, and other animals in captivity. Investigations in 2012 and 2013 uncovered instances of neglect and animal suffering, leading to orders for improved animal care. In 2017, the park faced six counts of animal cruelty. The park's owner, Marie Holer, passed away in 2024, and Marineland confirmed its permanent closure for the fall of 2025.