Chicago's Shedd Aquarium Takes in Rescued Beluga Whales from Canada

Shedd Aquarium in Chicago has welcomed a second group of beluga whales as part of a large-scale international rescue operation. The four new arrivals join an initial group of four that reached the aquarium in July, bringing the total number of rescued whales at the facility to eight.

The whales are being relocated from Marineland of Canada in Niagara Falls, Ontario, a marine park that closed its doors in 2024. The facility could no longer provide long-term care for the animals, prompting a coordinated response from aquariums across North America.

Charlie Jacobsma, director of animal behavior and training at Shedd, described the operation as "complex and unprecedented." He noted that 30 belugas were in "immediate and urgent need of rescue," and that Shedd, along with other partners, stepped up to help.

The whales were transported overnight in custom-built slings and containers, designed to make the journey as comfortable as possible for animals weighing over 2,000 pounds. Dr. Karisa Tang, lead veterinarian at Shedd, said the team is monitoring the new arrivals closely.

"We're monitoring them hour by hour, minute by minute," Tang said, adding that staff are tracking food intake, social interactions, and signs of physical or psychological stress. The whales will be kept out of public view until they are fully acclimated to their new home.

Tang also highlighted the broader significance of the rescue, urging the public to channel enthusiasm for the effort into action for ocean conservation. "Belugas, whales, dolphins, animals all over the world need our help," she said.