On July 20, 2026, Marineland in Ontario began the relocation of six beluga whales to two facilities in the United States. The whales are being transferred to the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, Illinois, and SeaWorld in San Antonio, Texas.
The move marks the first phase of a coordinated effort involving the two receiving institutions. Both aquariums are preparing to receive the animals and integrate them into their existing marine mammal programs. Logistics for the transport have been arranged to move the whales from the Ontario park to the two separate destinations.
Marineland’s decision to relocate the belugas comes amid ongoing public and regulatory attention to the care of marine mammals at the park. Officials have noted that the transfer aligns with broader discussions about the welfare of the animals housed at the facility.
The six belugas, which have been part of Marineland’s collection for several years, will now travel from the Canadian park to the United States. The Shedd Aquarium and SeaWorld have each indicated that they will provide care consistent with their own standards for marine mammals.
While details of the transport process have not been released, the move underscores a shift in how the animals will be managed moving forward. The relocation is expected to be completed in stages, with the whales arriving at their new homes in the weeks following the July 20 departure.
The development adds a new chapter to the ongoing conversation about marine mammal stewardship at Marineland, as the park continues to respond to concerns raised by observers and authorities.
Both U.S. facilities are preparing to welcome the belugas and incorporate them into their existing exhibits and research programs, marking a significant transition for the six whales from their former home in Ontario to new environments in Chicago and San Antonio.