Belugas and Dolphins From Closed Canadian Park Reach New Home in Spain

Six marine mammals have arrived at Oceanogràfic in Valencia, Spain, after a long journey from Canada. The group includes two beluga whales and four dolphins, all formerly housed at Marineland, an Ontario park that closed its doors in 2024.

The closure set off a race to relocate the park's remaining animals, including 30 belugas, before they faced euthanasia. In January, the Canadian government approved a plan to export the whales to five marine parks, paving the way for the recent transfer.

The operation involved months of coordination among veterinarians, caretakers, and specialists across Canada, the United States, and Spain. The Association of Zoos and Aquariums and an aquarium consortium helped manage the complex logistics, which included air and road transport.

Now that the animals have arrived, the focus shifts to their adaptation. Andrea Ortolá, a biologist and marine mammal caretaker at Oceanogràfic, said the animals will remain in a non-public area during the initial weeks. This period is meant for caretakers to observe how the animals communicate, behave socially, and begin eating, allowing the team to understand each individual's needs.