What Happened
Thirty belugas, which were in a closed Canadian theme park, were transferred to the US. The first transfer of six whales took place on July 21, and seven more were sent on August 3. These whales are part of the emergency transfers from Canada to their new homes in the US, marking the beginning of the end of a year-long saga of uncertainty.
The whales traveled for hours, in trucks and a plane, to two facilities in the US: nine individuals went to SeaWorld in San Antonio, Texas, and four females to the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, Illinois, in two shipments. Marine mammal veterinarians accompanied the cetaceans during their journeys, according to a press release from the Georgia Aquarium.
Why It Matters
The transfer of these belugas is important because they were in a theme park that was closed and did not have a suitable home. Additionally, the transfer is an important step for the conservation of these animals, as they will be in a more suitable environment and receive the necessary care.
The transfer is also important because it highlights the need for regulation and protection of animals in captivity. The Canadian law that prohibits the capture, breeding, and trade of cetaceans for entertainment is an example of how governments can act to protect these animals.
The Mechanism/Science Behind It
Belugas are cetaceans that live in cold waters and need a specific environment to survive. They are social animals and need interaction with others of their species to develop healthily.
The transfer of these belugas to the US was done with care to ensure that they arrived at their destination in good condition. The special containers used to transport them were designed to maintain the adequate temperature and humidity for the animals.
Bigger Context
The transfer of the belugas is part of a larger movement to protect animals in captivity. The Canadian law that prohibits the capture, breeding, and trade of cetaceans for entertainment is an example of how governments can act to protect these animals.
Additionally, the transfer of the belugas also highlights the importance of international cooperation to protect animals. The transfer was done in partnership with several institutions in the US and Canada, and demonstrates how collaboration can be effective in protecting animals.
What Happens Next
Now that the belugas have been transferred to the US, they will be cared for by teams of specialists who will ensure that they receive the necessary care to adapt to their new home.
Additionally, the transfer of the belugas also raises questions about the future of animals in captivity. The Canadian law that prohibits the capture, breeding, and trade of cetaceans for entertainment is an example of how governments can act to protect these animals, and it is likely that other countries will follow suit.
Source / Reference
This article was originally published in Mongabay.