Shedd Aquarium Reports Deaths Of Two More Beluga Whales

Two beluga whales died Wednesday at Chicago’s Shedd Aquarium despite immediate efforts by animal care teams.

Rain, a 20-year-old rescued beluga, and Beethoven, a 34-year-old resident whale, died after experiencing health complications. Their deaths came just one week after Peekachu, a 23-year-old beluga transferred from Marineland, also died.

The Shedd Aquarium has been helping relocate 30 belugas following the 2024 closure of Marineland in Niagara Falls, Ontario, which lacked the resources to adequately care for the animals.

Animal care teams are continuing to monitor the remaining whales around the clock. Despite the losses, Shedd said its commitment to providing the relocated belugas with a new home and continued care remains unchanged.

Related Tweet:

Two more beluga whales have died at Chicago's Shedd Aquarium after another whale that came from a closed Canada marine park died last week, officials said. https://t.co/hm5gHGYMPR

— ABC 7 Chicago (@ABC7Chicago) September 3, 2026

Also Read:

Beluga Whale Peekachu Dies During Rescue Transfer To Chicago

Caretakers had observed early signs of improvement following the move but discovered that Peekachu was dehydrated and struggled to socialize.

tippinsightsTIPP Staff