In a daring and complex operation, two beluga whales were successfully evacuated from an aquarium in Kharkiv, Ukraine, to Europe’s largest aquarium in Valencia, Spain, as Russian aerial bombardments intensified in the city.
The 15-year-old male, Plombir, and the 14-year-old female, Miranda, were facing dire conditions in Kharkiv due to the destruction of the power grid, which made it difficult to keep the water cooled for the Arctic-dwelling belugas. Additionally, food shortages had halved their diet, and bombs exploding near their home at the NEMO Dolphinarium added to the precarious situation.
A team of marine mammal experts from Oceanogràfic de Valencia, Georgia Aquarium, and SeaWorld came together to orchestrate the 36-hour journey over 1,900 miles to ensure the safety of the whales. The operation was described as one of the most complex marine mammal rescues ever undertaken.
While the evacuation was a success, it shed light on the controversial practice of keeping cetaceans in captivity. Animal rights groups have criticized the NEMO Dolphinariums for alleged animal abuse, calling for their immediate closure.
Despite the challenges faced during the evacuation, the whales arrived safely in Valencia and were welcomed into their new home. The operation highlighted the dedication and compassion of the rescuers, who worked tirelessly to ensure the well-being of the animals amidst the chaos of war.
