“Marineland Dolphin’s Death in Spain Raises Concerns”

A dolphin that was relocated from Marineland has passed away in Spain, marking the fifth death of an animal from the closed tourist attraction in Niagara Falls, Ontario, following a significant transfer of whales and dolphins during the summer.

Echo, a blind Black Sea bottlenose dolphin estimated to be 30 years old, died on Wednesday at Oceanogràfic de València. The facility stated that Echo started experiencing swallowing and respiratory difficulties recently, leading to her being moved to the medical pool. Despite efforts by Oceanogràfic’s animal care and veterinary teams, her condition worsened rapidly, resulting in her passing overnight.

Echo, along with three other dolphins and two belugas, was transported to Oceanogràfic on a 19-hour journey from the closed Niagara Falls attraction on August 26. The facility is currently conducting necropsies on Echo and another deceased animal to determine the cause of death.

While Echo’s passing has been challenging for the Oceanogràfic team, the other four animals from Canada that were rescued are reportedly in good health and are being closely monitored by Oceanogràfic’s professional staff.

Since Marineland sent out a total of 30 belugas and four dolphins to various parks this summer, four belugas and one dolphin have died. Three of the belugas passed away at Shedd Aquarium in Chicago.

Marineland ceased operations in 2024 due to financial constraints and an inability to care for its marine animals. Following failed relocation deals with China, the whales and dolphins were transferred to American and Spanish aquariums. Investigations are ongoing at both Shedd and Oceanogràfic to determine the cause of the recent animal deaths.

The parks’ veterinarians and officials, including Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson, had approved the animals’ transfers after thorough health assessments prior to the moves.