A dolphin that was transported from Marineland has passed away in Spain, marking the fifth death of an animal from the now-closed Niagara Falls, Ontario, tourist spot following a significant relocation of whales and dolphins during the summer. Identified as Echo, a blind Black Sea bottlenose dolphin estimated to be around 30 years old, the animal died at Oceanogràfic de València on Wednesday.
Echo started experiencing difficulty swallowing and respiratory issues recently, leading to her transfer to the medical pool, as stated by Oceanogràfic. Despite the veterinary and animal care teams’ efforts, her health deteriorated rapidly, resulting in her passing overnight.
Echo and four other dolphins, along with two belugas, were transferred to Oceanogràfic on August 26 in a lengthy 19-hour journey from the closed Niagara Falls facility. Necropsies are being carried out on both Echo and the belugas by Oceanogràfic and pathology specialists at CEU Cardenal Herrera University to determine the cause of death.
The remaining rescued animals from Canada are reportedly in good health and are currently being monitored by Oceanogràfic’s professional teams. The loss of Echo has been particularly challenging for the Oceanogràfic staff, who had shown exceptional dedication to her well-being due to her specific requirements.
Since the summer, a total of four belugas and one dolphin have now perished after being relocated from Marineland, where a total of 30 belugas and four dolphins were moved to five different parks. Three belugas died at Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, including one of the resident belugas.
Marineland ceased operations in 2024, citing financial difficulties and an inability to provide care for its marine mammals. The decision to move the animals was made to prevent their euthanization as the park could no longer sustain them. Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson rejected a deal with Chimelong Ocean Kingdom in China, highlighting the animal welfare concerns of sending the whales there.
Marineland eventually sought assistance from a group of American and Spanish aquariums for the relocation of its marine mammals, a process that started in mid-July and concluded by late August. Investigations by Shedd and Oceanogràfic are ongoing to determine the reasons behind the recent animal deaths.
Ahead of the relocation, veterinarians from all involved parks assessed the animals at Marineland, ensuring they were fit for transport. Thompson approved the moves after reviewing updated health information provided by the veterinarians.
