Investigation finds mystery toxin the cause of Vancouver beluga deaths
A five-month investigation into the deaths of two beluga whales at Vancouver Aquarium last year has determined that the cetaceans were killed thanks to an unknown toxin introduced “by food, water, or through human interference”.
The investigation by the aquarium – which involved dozens of veterinary pathologists, toxicologists, genome specialists, medical doctors, and field research scientists – concluded that the cause of death in both animals was a toxin.
“Extensive testing was unable to identify the exact substance involved, which is not uncommon due to the very limited time a toxin is traceable in the bloodstream,” said a statement from the aquarium.
“The investigation has helped us understand what happened and, importantly, how we can best ensure the safety and welfare of marine mammals in our care.”
The Vancouver Park Board voted last month to end the practice of keeping whales, dolphins and porpoises at Vancouver Aquarium, with Park Board chair Sarah Kirby-Yung – former vice-president of communications for the aquarium – saying that the events justified a vote by city residents on continued whale captivity in the region.
The decision is a heavy blow for the aquarium, which recently announced a CA$100m (US$76.1m, €72.2m, £61.3m) 12-year expansion. At its heart, the expansion features a larger enclosure for its Arctic beluga habitat, with a new water filtration system and improved security measures.
The aquarium currently has three cetaceans on display – a harbour porpoise, a Pacific white-sided dolphin and a false killer whale. All three animals are receiving long-term care as part of the Aquarium’s Marine Mammal Rescue Centre Programme. The aquarium also owns six belugas, four of which reside at SeaWorld in Orlando, with the remaining two currently calling Georgia Aquarium home.
According to the aquarium, since the deaths of its belugas Qila and Aurora, several measures have been taken to test, evaluate, and reduce risks in the Arctic habitat, including an enhanced food-screening process, removal of adjacent vegetation, an overhaul of mechanical water treatments systems and increased water monitoring. Significant security updates have also been deployed to monitor perimeter access and reduce potential threats of human interference.
“We deeply appreciate the assistance of world class experts during the investigation process, the outpouring of support from members and the local community, as well as the unwavering dedication of our staff and volunteers,” said Dr. Martin Haulena, head veterinarian at Vancouver Aquarium. “The conclusion of the investigation helps bring closure to an extremely difficult situation.”
Vancouver Aquarium Beluga toxin whales cetaceans breeding ban beluga whale Qila AuroraPark Board votes unanimously to ban cetacean captivity at Vancouver Aquarium
Vancouver Aquarium phasing out beluga programme
Beluga deaths pile pressure on Vancouver Aquarium
Captive cetacean debate "back on the table" following beluga whale death
Wellness real estate market booming – forecast to reach $913bn by 2028, reports GWI
UAE’s first Dior Spa debuts in Dubai at Dorchester Collection’s newest hotel, The Lana
Europe's premier Evian Spa unveiled at Hôtel Royal in France
Clinique La Prairie unveils health resort in China after two-year project
GoCo Health Innovation City in Sweden plans to lead the world in delivering wellness and new science
Four Seasons announces luxury wellness resort and residences at Amaala
Aman sister brand Janu debuts in Tokyo with four-floor urban wellness retreat
€38m geothermal spa and leisure centre to revitalise Croatian city of Bjelovar
Two Santani eco-friendly wellness resorts coming to Oman, partnered with Omran Group
Kerzner shows confidence in its Siro wellness hotel concept, revealing plans to open 100
Ritz-Carlton, Portland unveils skyline spa inspired by unfolding petals of a rose
Rogers Stirk Harbour & Partners are just one of the names behind The Emory hotel London and Surrenne private members club
Peninsula Hot Springs unveils AUS$11.7m sister site in Australian outback
IWBI creates WELL for residential programme to inspire healthy living environments
Conrad Orlando unveils water-inspired spa oasis amid billion-dollar Evermore Resort complex
Studio A+ realises striking urban hot springs retreat in China's Shanxi Province
Populous reveals plans for major e-sports arena in Saudi Arabia
Wake The Tiger launches new 1,000sq m expansion
Othership CEO envisions its urban bathhouses in every city in North America
Merlin teams up with Hasbro and Lego to create Peppa Pig experiences
SHA Wellness unveils highly-anticipated Mexico outpost
One&Only One Za’abeel opens in Dubai featuring striking design by Nikken Sekkei
Luxury spa hotel, Calcot Manor, creates new Grain Store health club
'World's largest' indoor ski centre by 10 Design slated to open in 2025
Murrayshall Country Estate awarded planning permission for multi-million-pound spa and leisure centre
Aman's Janu hotel by Pelli Clarke & Partners will have 4,000sq m of wellness space
Therme Group confirms Incheon Golden Harbor location for South Korean wellbeing resort
Universal Studios eyes the UK for first European resort
King of Bhutan unveils masterplan for Mindfulness City, designed by BIG, Arup and Cistri
Rural locations are the next frontier for expansion for the health club sector
The Isola delle Rose has a rich history and an enviable location. Matteo Thun knew he had to capitalise on both with the design of the JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa