Two belugas from Marineland, Bertie Bott and Frankie, arrived at SeaWorld San Antonio and are adjusting well in a 2-million-gallon saltwater pool after a 1,500-mile transfer. The move is part of a nearly two-year international relocation effort that also sent four belugas to the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago. NOAA approved the transfers after Marineland said it could no longer provide necessary care; six of an expected 28 whales have been relocated so far. SeaWorld and veterinarians will continue medical monitoring before integrating the newcomers with resident belugas.
Two Marineland Belugas Arrive in Texas as International Rescue Effort Continues
A Marineland poster at the now-closed entrance of the park is seen through a fence, in Niagara Falls, Canada, on Nov. 13, 2025. / Credit: Daphné LEMELIN / AFP via Getty Images
Two beluga whales from Marineland — Bertie Bott and Frankie — have arrived at SeaWorld San Antonio and are settling into a 2-million-gallon saltwater pool after a roughly 1,500-mile relocation from Niagara Falls, Ontario.
Transfer and Care
The transfer, part of a nearly two-year international rescue effort, also moved four other belugas to Chicago's Shedd Aquarium. So far, six of an expected 28 Marineland whales have been relocated to U.S. facilities. The journey combined flat-bed truck transport and a cargo plane; ten SeaWorld caretakers accompanied the animals, and veterinarians specializing in marine mammals monitored their condition throughout the trip.
“I can't help but get just a big giant smile speaking about them,” said Steve Aible, SeaWorld San Antonio's vice president of zoological operations, noting that the animals are engaging and maintaining a healthy appetite.
Why The Move
Marineland closed to the public in 2024 and has said it lacks the resources to continue caring for its animals. About a year after closing, the park warned it might have to euthanize the whales without a relocation plan or new funding. In July, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) approved the relocations to ensure the belugas receive husbandry and medical treatment not currently available at Canadian facilities.
At SeaWorld San Antonio, caretakers report that Bertie and Frankie are exceeding expectations: they are active, showing social behavior and eating well. Staff will continue routine medical assessments and quarantine protocols before introducing the newcomers to the eight resident belugas at the park.
Next Steps
SeaWorld San Antonio expects to receive another 11 belugas from Marineland. The remaining animals are slated for facilities in Georgia, Chicago, San Diego and Spain. SeaWorld says these relocations will allow continued veterinary care and give tens of thousands of visitors the chance to see and learn about the animals.
Note: All transfers were conducted under veterinary supervision and relevant U.S. federal approvals.
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