Cyprus, former Marineland beluga whale, dies after relocation to California; cause undetermined, CBC reports
Cyprus’s Health and Death
SeaWorld San Diego said Cyprus had been eating regularly and engaging with trainers and animal care staff since arriving. He was housed with two other belugas rescued from Marineland.
The aquarium reported that an ultrasound of the 9-year-old male showed intestinal issues. It said a necropsy is planned, and the cause of death will be provided to the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration after the examination is complete.
Transfers From Marineland
Marineland, located in Niagara Falls, Ont., said it could no longer afford to care for Canada’s remaining captive whales and dolphins. In a large-scale transfer, 30 belugas and four dolphins were sent to other facilities.
Deaths at Other Facilities
Less than two weeks before Cyprus’s death, Chicago’s Shedd Aquarium announced that Caspian, a 27-year-old female beluga moved from Marineland, had died despite treatment efforts. She had been eating poorly, and blood tests showed electrolyte abnormalities, according to the aquarium.
Key points
- SeaWorld San Diego said an ultrasound found intestinal issues in Cyprus, a 9-year-old male beluga.
- Cyprus had been eating regularly and interacting with his care team after arriving in California.
- A necropsy is planned, with findings to be shared with the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
- Caspian, Jelly Bean and Echo also died after transfers from Marineland.