SeaWorld Rescues 7 Belugas in Record 2,000-Mile Journey

Seven beluga whales are settling into their new Texas home after completing one of the most ambitious animal rescues in American history.

The female whales—named Xena, Gemini, Skyla, Meeka, Eve, Neva, and Calypso—traveled nearly 2,000 miles from a closed marine park in Ontario, Canada to SeaWorld San Antonio. Their arrival marks a national record for the largest movement of captive whales ever undertaken by a zoo or aquarium.

The massive rescue operation became necessary when Marineland Canada could no longer support the care of 30 beluga whales. Working together, SeaWorld and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums organized an unprecedented international effort to relocate all the animals to facilities across the United States.

Each whale traveled in a specialized water container with round-the-clock veterinary supervision. The transport team monitored their health continuously throughout the journey, ensuring every animal arrived safely.

The seven females join two male belugas who arrived at SeaWorld three weeks earlier. Frankie and Bertie Botts are already adjusting well, getting to know their trainers and beginning to socialize with the other belugas at the facility.

Meanwhile, four other rescued belugas flew to Chicago aboard a Qatar Airways Boeing 777 cargo plane, landing safely at Shedd Aquarium on July 22nd. Moving marine mammals this size requires extraordinary planning, even under ideal conditions.

The Ripple Effect

This rescue showcases what's possible when animal care organizations work together across borders. The collaboration between American and Canadian teams, coordinated by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, created a blueprint for future large-scale animal relocations.

SeaWorld has spent more than 40 years building expertise in beluga whale care, veterinary medicine, and rescue response. That experience proved invaluable during this complex operation, where timing and precision could make the difference between success and tragedy.

The whales now rest in a private habitat away from public view, allowing them to adjust at their own pace. Caretakers watch closely for positive signs like healthy eating, comfortable resting, and social interaction with their new pod mates.

Through its marine animal rescue program, SeaWorld has assisted more than 43,000 animals over its history. This latest effort represents not just a rescue, but a commitment to giving these intelligent, social creatures the care they need to thrive.

All 30 belugas from the closed Canadian facility are now safe in their new American homes.