Seven more beluga whales arrived at SeaWorld San Antonio as part of a relocation mission for whales from a shuttered Canadian marine park.
The San Antonio park is involved in an international effort to relocate 30 beluga whales that were living at Marineland of Canada, a closed marine park that can no longer care for them. Several accredited aquariums and zoos were invited to look at relocations options for the animals.
The whales were moved in specialized, water-filled transport units by truck and plane from the park in Niagara Falls to SeaWorld San Antonio.
"Given this is the largest number of belugas being moved at one time, we are so happy that all went well and the second transport of this huge rescue effort is complete," said Steve Aibel, Vice President, Animals and Conservation for SeaWorld San Antonio, who accompanied both transports.
The seven female whales join two males who were transported to SeaWorld San Antonio on July 21. The females were chosen to move together as a sub-pod. Their names are Xena, Gemini, Skyla, Meeka, Eve, Neva and Calypso. SeaWorld says right now, they are being house away from the guests so animal care staff can focus on their wellbeing as they adjust to their new home.
The whales are a highly social species and were transported in groups to allow them to bond.
Frankie and Bertie Botts are the two males who arrived on July 21. They are currently being socialized with the beluga whales who were already at SeaWorld.
SeaWorld San Antonio is already home to several pods of beluga whales.