Shedd Aquarium in Chicago has reported the passing of two whales following the transfer of 10 beluga whales from Marineland in Niagara Falls, Ont. One of the whales, named Rain, arrived from Marineland in mid-August, while the other, Beethoven, was already residing at Shedd. The relocation of captive whales involved Marineland, Shedd, and various other aquariums, who successfully moved 30 belugas and four dolphins to five different locations.
Tragically, Peekachu, another beluga from Marineland, passed away last week due to severe dehydration. Despite immediate efforts to save the whales, Shedd Aquarium confirmed that the deaths of Rain and Beethoven occurred on Wednesday afternoon. The aquarium is conducting tests and necropsies to determine the cause of death and ascertain if the incidents are related.