Beluga Whale Peekachu Dies After Relocation from Marineland

Peekachu, a 23-year-old female beluga whale, has died shortly after her relocation from Marineland in Canada to Shedd Aquarium in Chicago. The aquarium announced her death on Wednesday.

Marineland has struggled to relocate its captive marine mammals since it closed in 2024. Following an agreement with the Canadian government, Peekachu was moved along with other whales to various U.S. aquariums and one in Spain. Initially, she showed signs of adapting well, eating and interacting with caretakers.

However, her condition deteriorated when staff discovered she was dehydrated and required medical attention. Despite efforts to provide care, Peekachu died unexpectedly. The cause of her death remains unclear, but a necropsy is planned to investigate her health prior to her passing. Six belugas still remain at Marineland, awaiting relocation.