Two beluga whales, Bertie Botts and Frankie, have arrived at SeaWorld San Antonio as part of a rescue operation from a defunct Canadian theme park. This marks the first phase of relocating 30 belugas from Marineland in Niagara Falls, Ontario, which closed following the deaths of its owners in 2024.
These whales traveled by truck and plane to reach their new home in Texas. Aquatic medicine specialists, veterinarians, and caretakers accompanied them throughout the journey, with some professionals even entering the water to assist. In total, six whales were part of this initial transfer. Another group, including Sierra, Acadia, Osiris, and Lilooet, was moved to the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago.
"This was a herculean effort and one that will continue over the coming weeks," SeaWorld San Antonio stated in a Facebook post. Animal care professionals from Shedd Aquarium, Georgia Aquarium, and Mystic Aquarium collaborated on the relocation of Bertie Botts and Frankie.
Prior to the closure, Marineland experienced significant losses, with 20 whales dying between 2019 and the park's closure. The park had previously indicated that euthanasia might be necessary if the whales could not be transferred. Authorities in Canada ultimately arranged for the transfer of the whales to accredited facilities in the United States and Spain.