Beluga Whales Relocated from Canada to New Homes in the U.S.

On July 22, 2026, two beluga whales, named Bertie Bott and Frankie, arrived at their new home in a 2-million-gallon saltwater pool at SeaWorld San Antonio, Texas. These whales were part of an international relocation effort from a closed Canadian theme park in Niagara Falls, Ontario. The journey also transferred four other belugas to the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago.

This move is the result of almost two years of international cooperation, with the goal of relocating a total of 28 whales to various aquariums across the United States. Steve Aible, SeaWorld San Antonio’s vice president of zoological operations, expressed joy about the whales’ arrival, standing by as the 1,200-pound animals settled into their temporary home.

Aible joined a team of 10 caretakers accompanying the whales on their journey from Marineland, which involved transport by flat-bed trucks and a cargo plane. “Who would ever think that you’ve got a chance to fly with a whale?” Aible remarked about the unique experience. Veterinary specialists in marine mammal medicine and animal care monitored the belugas throughout the trip to ensure their well-being.

Marineland, which had closed to the public in 2024, retained custody of the animals but struggled to provide necessary care due to lack of resources. Facing tough decisions about the future of the whales, the park was granted relocation permits by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration in July. The permits ensured the whales would receive essential medical treatment and care unavailable in Canada.

In San Antonio, the two whales are thriving, displaying lively behavior and healthy appetites. “They’re going to just have a much more dynamic and engaging environment here,” Aible commented on the improvement from their previous situation at Marineland.

The relocation is part of a broader effort to move other Marineland whales. Eleven more belugas are scheduled to join Bertie and Frankie at SeaWorld San Antonio. Additional whales are set to travel to aquariums in Georgia, Chicago, San Diego, and Spain.

Aible emphasized the significant opportunity for thousands of visitors to witness these amazing creatures firsthand. “And we can’t wait to share them with all the folks who come through our gates,” he added.