SeaWorld San Diego reported the unfortunate passing of Cyprus, a nine-year-old beluga whale rescued from Marineland in Ontario, which adds to the toll of deaths among relocated animals from the now-defunct Canadian facility this summer. Cyprus, who arrived at the park on August 22, ceased eating on Friday, prompting concerns about his intestinal tract function after an ultrasound revealed abnormalities. Despite initially showing positive progress with consistent eating habits and interactions with staff and other belugas, Cyprus’s subtle signs of discomfort went unnoticed. A comprehensive necropsy will be conducted to determine the exact cause of death.

Marineland in Niagara Falls, Ontario, facing financial struggles, transferred 30 belugas and four dolphins to different facilities to prevent euthanasia. However, the relocation effort has been marred by the deaths of several animals, including Cyprus. SeaWorld assured that the remaining rescued belugas are in stable condition and are being closely monitored as they adapt to their new environment. The facility emphasized its ongoing dedication to the well-being and care of all rescued animals.

Following the completion of the necropsy, findings on Cyprus’s death will be shared with the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The recent loss of Caspian, a beluga at Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, also highlights the challenges faced by relocated marine mammals. Peekachu and Rain, two other belugas from Marineland, were found to have underlying health issues upon necropsy at Shedd Aquarium. Additionally, Jelly Bean, a beluga, and Echo, a dolphin, passed away at Oceanografic Valencia in Spain post-relocation.