Beluga whale dies at SeaWorld San Diego, weeks after Canadian rescue

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A nine-year-old beluga whale who was rescued from an abandoned Canadian theme park died unexpectedly at SeaWorld San Diego Sunday.

Cyprus was one of three male belugas who were rescued from the shuttered Marineland Canada park in Niagara Falls, Ontario, and moved to San Diego on Aug. 22.

“Cyprus stopped eating two days ago, which prompted our veterinarians and animal care team to conduct a thorough medical exam,” SeaWorld said in a statement Sunday.

An ultrasound showed that Cyprus’ intestinal tract was not functioning normally, indicating a possible serious life-threatening condition. Veterinarians worked through the night to stabilize Cyprus, but they were unable to save him.

A full necropsy will be conducted, and the cause of the passing will be shared with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

“Cyprus had been doing well since his arrival. He was eating consistently, acclimating to his new environment and interacting with his trainers and animal care team, along with the two other rescued belugas,” the rescue organisation said.

According to SeaWorld, belugas naturally hide physical distress, an instinctual trait that often masks serious health issues during early stages.

“We understood each animal would be navigating a significant transition and that their complete health picture, including conditions that may have developed over time, could only become clearer through ongoing assessment and care,” the statement read.

The other two rescued belugas, Xavier and Jasper, were reported to be in stable health and “remain under close monitoring as they continue to adjust to their surroundings,” SeaWorld said.

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