SeaWorld San Antonio welcomed seven female beluga whales on Tuesday in the largest beluga transfer ever completed in the United States, according to the marine park. The arrivals—named Xena, Gemini, Skyla, Meeka, Eve, Neva, and Calypso—mark the second group of marine mammals successfully relocated from the shuttered Marineland theme park in Canada as part of an international rescue effort.
Inside the Largest U.S. Beluga Whale Transfer
The nearly 2,000-mile journey from Niagara Falls to San Antonio required specialized water-filled transport units, flatbed trucks, and a cargo plane. According to Steve Aibel, SeaWorld San Antonio’s vice president of zoological operations, caretakers accompanied the 1,200-pound animals on their journey to monitor their condition.
“We are so happy that all went well and the second transport of this huge rescue effort is complete,” Aibel said. Upon arrival, the newly transferred whales were placed in a private habitat away from public view. Caretakers are actively monitoring their health, providing veterinary care, nutrition, and attention as the animals adjust to their new environment.
Did you know? Moving marine mammals of this size requires specialized, water-filled transport units and rides on flatbed trucks and a cargo plane.
Previous Relocations and Current Integration
The latest arrivals follow an initial transport last month that brought two males, Frankie and Bertie Botts, on the same nearly 2,000-mile route to San Antonio. Four additional whales from that first group were brought to the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago.
Caretakers report that Frankie and Bertie Botts are adjusting well to their new home. Park staff are currently managing a slow process of introducing the two males to the existing whales at the park.
Regulatory Approvals and Future Marineland Transfers
The complex international transfers stem from the closure of Marineland to the public in 2024. Although the facility kept possession of the animals, park representatives stated they lacked the resources to continue caring for them. Roughly a year after closing, Marineland officials warned that euthanasia would be the only remaining option if alternative funding or relocation plans failed to materialize.
To prevent this outcome, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) issued official relocation approvals in July. NOAA stated that the authorizations were necessary to ensure the belugas receive proper medical treatment and care, noting that no other facilities in Canada are able to provide the whales husbandry or medical care.
Seventeen beluga whales remain at the Marineland facility in Canada. These remaining animals are expected to move to aquariums in Georgia, Chicago, San Diego, and Spain, though a specific timeline for their departures has not yet been announced.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many beluga whales were moved in the latest transfer?
Seven female beluga whales—Xena, Gemini, Skyla, Meeka, Eve, Neva, and Calypso—were moved in the second transfer.
Where did the beluga whales come from?
The whales came from Marineland, a theme park in Niagara Falls that closed to the public in 2024.
Are the newly arrived whales on public display?
Where are the remaining Marineland whales going?
Seventeen whales remain at Marineland and are expected to move to facilities in Georgia, Chicago, San Diego, and Spain, pending an official timeline.
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